WEDNESDAY,JANUARY 1, 2020 www.limerickleader.ie THE LEADER UP NEXT: Munster look to bounceback against Ulster SPORT LeThe Wednadesday, January 1, 2020 er FIRST FOR LOCALNEWS ACROSS ALL PLATFORMS, 24-7 Calling all brides-to-be for the www.limerickleader.ie Mid-West Bridal Exhibition P5

AH HERE LADS Limerick rang in the new year and newdecade with a Students cause spectacular fireworks €2,000 worth displayoverthe River Shannon on Tuesdaynight. of damage The familyfriendlyevent wasafitting finale to the during Christmas festivities Christmas Day melee P16

UP AND UP! Limerick house prices continue to rise, despite overall national drop Page 14

Ringing in the newdecade! Racing festival Over 40,000 at 2020 starts off with abang four dayevent P6,10&Sport THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 2 NEWS LeThe aderwww.limerickleader.ie CONTACT US Setting the agenda NEWSDESK 0 6 1 - 2 1 45 03 in Limerick n ews @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e A DV E RT I S I N G LeadingOff ▲ Q 061 214521 GOOD WEEK ▼ BAD WEEK { THEQUOT E OF THE WEEK and 061 214525 Local pubs and retailers Giftworks customers “The roar that greeted him over the line The festive period has seen Scores of customers were and the stampede of young and old, men SW I T C H B OA R D a great buzz in the city left out of pocket after the and women that flocked to the winners' Call us on with the sales and rugby store at the Parkway enclosure to applaud him was something 0 6 1 - 2 1 45 0 0 matches adding to the Shopping Cente closed to behold” 29 Glentworth Street, general feel good vibe abruptly at Christmas Limerick Jockey Patrick Mullins - see page 6

INSIDE W E BTO PTEN THIS WEEK 1. Former Made in Chelsea After the binge comes star spends festive weekend in Adare Manor

2. Almost 450 homes planned for Limerick city the resolutions... site 3. Investigation underway after car crash involving garda vehicle in Limerick STYLE AT city THE RACES Most Stylish 4. Limerick man appeals to public to help locate lost wins holiday wedding ring Page 10 5. Angry customers still 'in the dark' after Limerick furniture store closure

6. Limerick motorist caught for 17th time with no insurance has 'no respect for the law'

7. Leinster's Sean enjoys bragging rights among Limerick's Cronin brothers at TAKE A BITE Thomond Park INTO 2020 Try a traditional 8. Stolen SUV was re c i p e ‘deliberately reversed’ at Pages 24-25 Limerick garda

9. Gardai hit County Limerick drug dealers Students from St Clement's School with Fr Seamus Enright and the Mayor of Limerick City and County, Michael Sheahan at the where it hurts sleep-out to help raise funds for the Redemptorists Poor Appeal which helped deliver over 6,000 food hampers 10. Traffic delays as It really is exhausting...and return home and a time to So many good things emergency services at thanks be to God it is over. relfect on the year ahead. And happened in Limerickitis scene of double car Yes, Christmas is great, butit yes commercialism is taking hard to chronicle them all. collision in County Limerick goes on for so long. over and themeaning of Again theRedemptorists, The shoppingstarts so Christmas is slowly being led by FrSeamusEnright, earlyand youwould think lost. along withthe Societyof St PLENTY TO people were going to run out But not by everybody. And Vincent de Paul, did a SEE AND DO WHATWETHINK of food and drink such are the it is heartening to see so many magnificentjob indelivering What's On with crowds queuing at the good things happening in over 6,000 food parcels to Seamus Ryan EUGENE different supermarkets. Limerick, and the fact that families. Now it is time for the But havingsaid that, people genuinely do care newyear's resolutions. Best PAGE 32 PHELAN LEADER EDITOR overall it is agreat time of the about homelessness, poverty of luck with whatever goal you year, a time when family and the plight of others. set for 2020!

W E AT H E R FO RTHEWEEK

OH WHAT A YEAR! W E D N E S DAY T H U R S DAY F R I DAY S AT U R DAY SU N DAY M O N DAY Richard Lynch’s Periods of clouds Showery day Mixed day with Generally dry day The cloudiness Another cloudy limerickleader.ie look back at 2019 and good with a few breaks Intervals of with times of continues but day - like Sunday The No 1 Source of Pages 44-45 sunshine in the rain clouds and clouds and sun remaining mostly with a high of - High of 10°C sunshine -High of 8°C dry just 9°C Local News Online W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER NEWS 3 LIMERICK’S BIGGEST MyLimerick E 2020!! Fiona Steed SAL Group Lead Allied Health UL Hospitals, former Irish rugby Dyson Airwrap Dyson Hair Dryer international, rugby analyst and coach, proud Tipperary Complete woman, mother and wife CURL. WAVE. COMES WITH W h at’s your idea of a perfect day, or a has so many unique featuresbut also is a perfect weekend, in Limerick? gateway to The West. SMOOTH. MAGNETIC Aperfect weekend would startwithan DRY. STYLING earlymorning trip to theMilk Marketon Do you have a favourite local WITH NO AT TACHMENTS. Saturday to pickup lots of bits and pieces, re s tau ra n t? followed by lunch at home on the farm I can rarely get himself [Lions, Ireland, EXTREME and going to watch Munster play in Thomond Munster and Bruff legend John Hayes] away HEAT FOR EASY Park. I usually go to Mass with my from thefarm foranightout inLimerick but FITTING AND mother-in-lawMarie and kids on aSaturday myself and a group of old Shannon buddies SAVE ROTATION SAVE night but this will be delayed ‘til Sunday if head into La Cucina Centro every now and WITH AT TACHMENTS Munster are playing. Most Sundaymornings then for fab food and great fun. €100 DURING STYLING. €100 are spent at Bruff Rugby Club coaching underageand home to anice piece of slow How would you describe the people of RRP €599 € RRP €499 € cooked beef. If it’s fresh in the afternoonwe L i m e r ick? SALEPRICE 499 SALE PRICE 399 might go for a little cycle or walk in Glenstal. Open and welcoming and just a littlebit bitter (when it comes to sport). W h at’s your first Limerick memory? NordmMende Freestanding Going shopping in theParkway andthen How important do you think sport is to WhirlpoolWashingMachine Cooker with Ceramic Hob theCrescentasa child. Suchabig thrill L i m e r ick? Freshcare coming from thecountryside in See above. I’m married to someone who S i l ve r m i n e s . still hasn’t got over Tipperary winning the 1200 Spin All-Irelands in 1989and 1991 when he wasin 7kgLoad W h at’s your favourite part of the school inDoon. By the waythere’s nothing SAVE county and why? wrong with being a bit bitter around sport, it € I love where I live in Cappamore, it’s a great makes you stronger!! 80 SAVE 3 village with great people, who have welcomed YEAR me in, has greatschools and sports W h at’s the biggest challenge facing 2YEAR € LABOUR 130 WA RRANTY facilities, and it’s not toofar away the city/county today? 10 YEAR from Tipperary. Ialso love the Ithink thecountyis ever evolving PARTS Shannon Estuary drive along as aplace of tourism and growth WA RRANTY the N69. and we are constantly finding RRP €499 newplaces to go walking,hiking RRP €379 € What about a favourite etc Thereare two things for me SALEPRICE €299 SALE PRICE 369 local walk or view? as I see it and that’s creating a I really love the Clare vibrant city centrethat will Glens,we go therea lot and attract business and people, Whirlpoolinduction Glass NordMende Washing Machine it straddles the Tipperary and as a parent ofa young Limerick border teenager I worry about having Ceramic Hob(with Pots) beautifully. The trees in appropriate safespace for Glenstalare fabulous in them to have fun and autumn too. express themselves without undue SAVE 3 What do you think i n ap p ro p r i a te €130 SAVE YEAR gives Limerick its i n f lue n c e s . €80 WA RRANTY u n iq ue This is not id e nti ty? unique to Like most L i m e r ic k counties it’s just front RRP €279 the people and centre SALEPRICE € who make of my mind 199 them and I p re s e ntl y. think the plus w ay Limerick is Miele C3 Vacumm Cleaner nestled in FREE The vacuum cleaner's No rth 3BergHoff Induction Pots tight seal as well as the Mu n s te r BergHoffInduction Pots 18/10stainless steel aerodynamic design makes it is the highest grade. Stainless steel cookware of all components special. It is very much in ensureperfect demand for air flow. its versatility and durability. SAVE *Potsbyredemption €130

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Ballysimon Rd Limerick MON TO SAT 9.30 - 6 PM TEL 061-469467 F I N U C A N E S THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 4 NEWS BE PART OF THE CONVERSTATION Lisa Smith expected to be home for New Year's Day

REBECCA LAFFAN Leader at the time of going to who put forward her bail Ms Smith, who denies the charged with being a member of re b e c c a . l a f fa n @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e press this Tuesdsay money, was not allowed to charges against her, had been held ISIS, and initially refused bail by eve n i n g . act as the independent in a “specialist regime”in Limerick the District Court. Her bail MEDIA gathered outside Limerick She is due to appear surety due to previous Prison since December 4. conditions include signing into a Prison this Tuesday as Lisa Smith, before Dublin District c o nv i c t io n s . The County Louth native was garda station twice daily, as well as the accused ISIS member, was Court on January 8. It is believed that Mr radicalised while in Ireland and having to remain indoors from expected to be released. The 37-year-old was Grimes has several travelled to Syria in 2015 to join the 8pm until 7am the following day, The mother-of-one was due to not released in time to convictions, with some middle eastern terror group, ISIS. while she also cannot leave the be released from the jail on join her family and going back 40 years, The former soldier returned to jurisdiction or apply for new travel Mulgrave Street in Limerick city two-year-old daughter on including an assault on the Ireland on December 1 with her documentation, after already after being remanded there since Christmas Day, despite having her referee who allowed the two-year-old daughter after she having lost her passport. December 4. bail granted on December 19. controversial goal which cost was located in a Syrian Refugee She must provide gardaí with a “She is expected to be released It is believed that this is because Louth the 2010 Leinster Football c a m p. contact phone number within 48 in the next hour,” a source told The Paul Grimes (50s), a family friend Final. After questioning she was hours of taking up bail. Every rented Aladdin drawing big crowds to UC H home found to be ‘non co mp l i a n t ’ Failure rate: 100% of rented homes fail council inspection

DAVID HURLEY also stated that anypersonal d av i d . h u r l ey @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e information relating totenants, landlords and agents would have to EVERY privately rented home be redacted from which wasinspected in Limerick each report before it could be during 2018 wasin breach of re l ea s e d . planning standards or regulations, Overall figures disclosed to The it can be revealed. Leader show1,021 of the breaches Figures obtained under the related to gas, oil or electricity Freedom ofInformation Act show installations while 1,010 relatedto 1,035 homes were inspected structural issues. A further by Limerick Cityand 1,020 of the breaches County Council during related to insufficient the 12 month period. information about A significant the rented property number ofthe being provided, by properties which thelandlord, to the were inspected come te n a nt . under the Housing By wayof Assistance Payment clarification, a (HAP) scheme while spokesperson for the others come under the c ou n c i l ’s housing Rental Accommodation department said one Scheme (RAS). issue which can often result in a While the overall rate of property failing an inspection non-compliance was 100%, relatestothe number and location multiple breaches of standards and of carbon monoxide alarms. regulations were found in some Regulations require that alarms p ro p e r t ie s . should be located in every room that A summary of the contains aheat-producing figures, shows more than 6,200 appliance and either inside or close individual breaches were detected to each bedroom. across a varietyof areas suchas The absence ofan up-to-date structure, heating, ventilation, copies of the PeriodicInspection refuse and food preparation. Report relating to the The local authorityhas refused electrical/gas/oil installations is to disclose full detailsof thereports also acommon problem which can – citing thevolume of lead to a property failing an documentation and thetime it i n s p e c t io n . would take toretrieve the relevant Just 16 houses whichhad been re p o rt s . found to benon-complaint became Lucy and Michael Lowe, Ballynanty all set for Aladdin at the University Concert Hall. It continues until A spokesperson forthe council compliant during 2018. Sunday January 5 next PICTURE BRENDAN GLEESON W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER BE PART OF THE CONVERSTATION NEWS 5 Brides-to-be to flock to expo at UL Showcase: Biggest Mid-West Bridal Exhibition yet to take place on January 11 & 12

ÁINE FITZGERALD been a hugely successful wedding exhibitors, prizes and giveaways”. wear, grooms wear, cakes and Exhibition. It is the biggest to date a i n e . f i t z ge ra l d @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e s h owc a s e . Twofashion shows will take desserts, wedding cars, bridal and has always been a hugely This year, theorganisers are place daily covering fashion for designers, entertainment services, successful event. This is one of INSPIRATIONAL tips and fresh offering a honeymoon giveaway in brides, bridesmaids, groomswear, florists, hairdressers, honeymoon I re l a n d ’s largest and longest ideas on what is making waves in the association withMelanie Cahill mother-of-the-bride, hats and services, jewellers, photobooths, established wedding showcases world of bridal fashion will feature Travel Counsellor and awedding accessories as well as fashion for photographers and videographers, catering for all aspects of planning at the Mid-West Bridal Exhibition dress giveaway inassociation with guest at the wedding with head stationery, wedding gift items, for your perfect wedding,”s a i d on January 11 and 12 next. Finesse Bridal, who will be turning hair styles, glowing makeup wedding décor and planners – organiser Ger Lee from HL Event The sportsarena and exhibition celebrating 20 years in business. and unusual wedding bouquets. anything the bridal couple will need M a n a ge m e nt . hall at the University of Limerick According to the organisers, the The exhibition also includes for their special day. The event will open its doors will playhost to the exhibition upcoming exhibition is proving to hotels, reception venues, “We arevery excited about the from 12pm to 6pm on both days with which is now in its 18th year and has be the biggest yet “with amazing celebrants, beauty, make-up, bridal upcoming Mid-West Bridal tickets available at the door.

Don't forget the Mid-West Bridal Exhibition at the UL Sports Arena on Saturday, January 11 and Sunday, January 12. Event organiser Celia Holman Lee is pictured with Beibhinn Haren ahead of the exhibition THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 6 NEWS BE PART OF THE CONVERSTATION Reality star’s romantic getaway is Made in Limerick

REBECCA LAFFAN The Instagram personality, who The happy couple tied the knot Mackintosh created the sweet re b e c c a . l a f fa n @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e has over 1.3 million followers, Millie poses for in the summer of 2018, a year after company. It was rumored that the documented her luxurious stay in her 1.3m Hugo proposed during a holiday to ex-Made in Chelsea star was A FORMER Made in Chelsea star the five-star hotel in a series of followers on the the Greek island of Mykonos. assisting Meghan Markle with the paid a visit to Limerick over the posts - including one of her manor’s grounds The couple briefly dated when planning of her Royal wedding to weekend, choosing none other showing off her baby bump. they starred in Made In Chelsea Prince Harry last year, as sources than Limerick's Adare Manor as The star captioned her post: back in 2011 and reunited after say the two have been friends for her lavish getaway. 'Looking forward to #2020 Millie's split from her first years. However, despite Millie Mackintosh and her #motherhood #babygirl the manor. husband, rapper Professor Green, speculation that she would be a husband Hugo Taylor, who also # ic a n t wa i tto m e etyou .’ Millie's Instagram showed off in 2016. bridesmaid at the Windsor featured on the Bafta-winning TV Millie, 30, announced the the couple's stunning hotel room, Millie is the heiress of Quality wedding, Millie wasn't invited to series, enjoyed one of their final pregnancy last month, with the complete with four-poster bed and Street chocolates, as the day as it was rumoured that festive retreats before the arrival of couple receiving a gift of a white Christmas tree, as well as their her great-grandfather and Prince Harry discouraged from her their first child in May next ear. bathrobe for their new arrival from breakfasts of bacon and waffles. great-Uncle Harold and Douglas atte n d i n g .

Left: Claire Lane, Mitchelstown, Ciara Lane, Aoife Finn, Pallasgreen, Edel and Fiona Moynihan, enjoying the races, as were above, Evie and Cathal O'Gorman Just under 41,000 attend four day Limerick racing festival Greenmount, Patrickswell: St Stephen's Day saw more patrons than Leopardstown

EUGENE PHELAN This facility has all the comforts and old, men and women that flocked festival. Mr Binman provided e u ge n e . p h e l a n @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e needed, no matter what the weather to the winners' enclosure to applaud clearly-signposted bins with and thefacilities were well able to him was something to behold and a compost and recycling facilities for LIMERICK'S fourday MrBinman handle the hungry and thirsty momentI will notforget,”the top all race-goers that attended the Racing Festival proved a huge punters who revelled in the rider said afterwards. I've ridden Limerick Christmas Racing Festival. success at Greenmount Park, Christmas action with the highlight “I've ridden favourites in The good news isthatevenfrom Patrickswell, with theattendance up being the duel between two stars of Cheltenham to win but this was favourites in initial numbers after racing finished each day, compared to 2018. the National Hunt scene,Faugheen beyond that, aboveit. Something Cheltenham to on Sunday, there wasafive-fold And on day one, StStephen’s Day, and Samcroin theGrade 1 different. Something more,”he increase in recycling when compared general manager,Patrick Matchbook Betting Exchange Novice e nthu s e d . “win but this to last year’s festival. O’Callaghan and staff were thrilled to chase worth €100,000 in prize Day two saw 11, 328 punters turn “We wanted to show that see that they had an even bigger m o n ey. up,another increase on 2018 with9, was beyond sustainability can be part of festivals crowd than Leopardstown, with Faugheen's jockey Patrick Mullins 212on daythree and 6,295 on day that and publicevents, so Limerick who dida FrankieDettori-style four, all increases on theprevious hosted the first Green Racing Festival 14,106 attending in Limerick with JOCKEY PATRICK MULLINS 11,916 at the Dublin venue. dismount, muchto the delightof the year, witha totalof 40,941 in all in Ireland this Christmas where “The Grade 1with Faugheen and crowd,was bowled over by the atte n d i n g . plastics were no longer single use and Samcrowas abig draw and made a reception he and Faugheen received This year, Limerick Racecourse therewerefacilities to recycle your huge difference,” said the delighted from a big crowd that turned up at the committedto reduce waste waste properly at the racecourse. The general manager. And he cited the winners' enclosure. drastically on siteby using ‘g r e e n’ increase in recycling yearonyearis weather as another plus, an “The roar that greetedhim over suppliers and compostable materials p h e n o m e n a l ,” stated Joe Cleary of Mr important factor. the line and thestampede of young at the Mr Binman Christmas Racing Binman. W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER 7

TOP EXHIBITORS INCLUDING: AerLingus THE Air Canada American Airlines American Holidays Atlantic City &Pennsylvania Beds Of SilkLuxuryHoliday Retreat Bill O’Brien’s Doolin FerryCo Cambrils Tourism Board HOHOLLIIDADAY Camino Groups Castlerosse Park Resort Causeway Coastal Route Clare Tourism Concorde Travel Delta Air Lines SHOW DurtyNelly’s SOUTH COURT HOTEL LIMERICK Expressway AM PM Fitzpatrick Hotel Group 11&12 JANUARY 11 -5 FlyShannon.ie Hayes &Jarvis Irish Camping And CaravanClub Israel Government Tourist Office JMG Travel Lanzarote Tourist Board Las Vegas Convention And Visitors Authority Leitrim Tourism Office Of Public Works PassportServices &Consular Directorate Portaventura World Rathlin Island Ferry Ryanair Salou Tourism Board Select Hotels Of Ireland Shandon Travel Shannon Heritage &Tourism Silversea Cruises South Dublin County Council Spanish Tourism Office Spike Island Stena Line Sunway Holidays The Countryside Of Philadelphia The Cruise Centre Cork The Manor House Rathlin Island Tropical Sky United Airlines WendyWuTours

FREEADMISSION FREECAR PARKING THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 8 NEWS W W W. L I M E R I C K L E A D E R . I E FOR LIMERICK NEWS AS IT HAPPENS First arrest T ro u b l e d in Rose m u rd e r teenager p ro b e FINTAN WALSH f i n t a n . wa l s h @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e a ss a u l t e d THE PROCESS of the European arrest warrant, whichis beforethe English courts, in relation to the murder of pensioner Rose workers at Hanrahan, could take weeks, according to media reports. Gardai last week confirmed that aperson has been arrested in connection with the care centre murder of the of L i m e r ic k Injuries: Care worker has not p e n s io n e r. In an returned to work after attack o f f ic i a l s tate m e nt DAVID HURLEY head while a second care worker d av i d . h u r l ey @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e to the Rose wasinjured when he wasstruck Leader last H a n ra h a n while escortingMr Smithtothe Fr id a y A JUVENILE offender who bath ro o m . afternoon, An Garda violently assaulted a number of Judge Martina Baxter wastold Siochana said: “Gardaí are workers while being detained at that following the second incident, awarethat an individual has Coovagh House will be sentenced thedefendant hadtobe restrained been arrested on aEuropean later in the year. as he threatened to stab and kill the Arrest Warrant. No further Jason Smith, 19, of no fixed care worker. information is available at abode has pleaded guilty to charges The worker, Mr O’Sullivan said, this time.” relating to four separate incidents underwent a CTscan following the A senior officer in An which occurred on dates assault and has notreturned to Garda Siochana press office between December 2017and work since. has confirmed this statement March 2018. Meanwhile, Mr Smith has also to be correct. During a sentencing hearing admitted assaulting a security Rose Hanrahan,the before Christmas, Detective Garda guard on January 26, 2018. 78-year-old widowed Eoghan McDonagh saidthe Detective Garda McDonagh Jason Smith was being detained at Coovagh House at the time pensioner, wasbrutally defendant, who is originally from saidthe man was on duty nearthe murdered at her home on County Louth, was being detained entrance to StJoseph’s Hospital, New Road,Thomondgate in at Coovagh House,on the grounds when he was confrontedbyMr continuesto suffer from anxietyas suffers from anger management the northside of Limerick city of St Joseph’s Hospital, on foot of a Smith whothreatened him and a consequence of what happened. issues. She said he has been doing on December 14, 2017. High Court Order. struck him in the face. The fourth assault happened on well in custody and that realises he This isthe first arrest in “Itisa special careunit which The door of athe security cabin March 5, 2018. has to change his behaviourgoing the major investigation deals with juveniles whohave was also kicked in and a block was On that date, Mr Smith grabbed fo r w a rd . which has been led by gardai d i f f ic u l t ie s ,” John O’Sullivan BL, thrown throughthe windowafter acare worker by the arm and “It is a wake upcall for him,”she at Mayorstone garda station. prosecuting told Limerick Circuit the security guard retreated. striking him three times. He also said urging the court to note Mr The community of C ou rt . “It was extremely frightening,” attempted to headbutt him and S m i th’s age. Thomondgate marked the In one incident on December 5, saidMr O’Sullivanwho told the spat in his face. Judge Baxter adjourned the second anniversary of Rose 2017, a care worker sustained soft court that while thesecurity guard Barrister Eimear Carey said her matter to early February H a n ra h a n’sdeath withan tissue injuries when he was sustained minorphysical injuries, client experienced significant requesting details of wherethe evening vigil outside her punched across the backof the he wasin fear of his life and difficulties as achild and that he defendant will live when released. home on December 16. Teen robbed by culprit on bike Workplace accidents

DAVID HURLEY 19-year-old victim was premises in Thomondgate at rise to more than 330 d av i d . h u r l ey @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e approached by the defendant around 8.30am on the same who was riding a bicycle. d ay. MORE than 300 workplace the nine-month period. A YOUNG man who was robbed He told him to empty his Barrister Yvonne Quinn said accidents occurred in The HSA has refused to while walking home following a pockets, he said he had a knife, her client – a father of six –is a Limerick during the first release further details night out has was threatened he told barrister John chronicaddict and has suffered nine months of last year, – citing Section 37 (1) of the and warned not to contact gardai O’Sullivan who added that the a lotof tragedyin his life. She writes David Hurley. Freedom of Information Act. about the incident. youth “was in great fear and said Mr Moore has no history of Figures released to The “Having examined the The victim’s mobile phone dropped to his knees”. violence and she asked the court Leader under the Freedom of records at issue, I am and a small amountof change Judge Martina Baxter was to note that no knife was Information Act show a total satisfied that the records (i.e. were taken by the culprit who told the injured party had eaten produced during the robbery. 334 incidents were referred all reports relating to claimed he wasarmed witha in a service stationa shorttime While noting the submission to the Health and Safety incidents) contain knife and would stab him. earlier and that CCTV footage that the defendant is nowdrug Authority between January 1 information of a personal Darragh Moore, 28, of shows Mr Moorecycling and Limerick Courthouse, free, Judge Baxter expressed and September 30 2019. nature and is therefore Cosgrave Park, Moyross has walking around the store Mulgrave Street concern she was “being asked to According to the HSA, 324 exempt under Section 37,” pleaded guilty to a robbery “following the injured party”. rely on instructions”. of these were categorised as stated Gemma Toal, FOI charge relating to anincident on Following his arrest, the Adjourning thematter for “non-fatal accidents”wh i l e decision maker. the Dock Road at around 6.30am defendantinitially claimed he sentence, she requested a report ten were categorised as The location of the 334 on October 27, 2018. had found the phone and denied from the governor of Limerick “dangerous occurrences”. incidents has not been During asentencing hearing any involvementin therobbery. Prison and directed that Mr There were no reports of disclosed and it’s not know before Christmas, Detective However, he admittedstealing a Mooreprovide regular urine any fatal workplace what action, if any, was taken Garda Cathal O’Sullivansaid the charitycollection boxfroma samples for analysis accidents in Limerick over by the HSA. W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER 9

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Comments from online readers What you're saying about stories on l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e and our social media platforms

ANIMAL CHARITIES GET €76K OUT OF €3M Yvone Ellard We also need far better laws on animal welfare and to have them enforced. But the fact the government gives any money to animal welfare groups has to be commended, it doesn't happen in the UK for example. I'm sure the groups getting the money appreciate it as it's so hard for them to keep going doing the work they do while also having to fundraise.

Chris Walsh It's positive news and should be welcomed.

Tracy McNamara Those figures are disgraceful. No where close to what should be allocated.

APPEAL TO HELP LOCATE WEDDING RING

Sharon Culhane Hope you find it I’m not holy but when I go to work soon I will say a prayer in the church that you get it back

Breda Clarke St Anthony trust me has been so good for me promise to donate good luck Gemma McDonagh (centre) who won first prize and walked away with a holiday for two people to Turkey, Alex Butler Marian O’Brien (left) came third, and Emma Perkins (right) came second PICTURE: : DON MOLONEY Hope u can find it

ALMOST 450 HOMES PLANNED FOR LIMERICK CITY SITE Prizes galore for Daniel O Hartaigh Change is good, and to the people complaining just walk down O Connell street any given day and you'll see how much something like this could make such a differnce in many Most Stylish ladies peoples lives. It'll ease the already overcrowded housing market, create jobs in the city. Galway girl Gemma wins Turkish holiday Graham Hickey R a ce s : Traffic is the biggest issue here. You can’t get onto the Dublin Rd in the mornings as for the Corbally road side is a total REBECCA LAFFAN daughter and we simply can’t wait.” from Kilkenny, Grace Flynn from disaster re b e c c a . l a f fa n @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e Speaking of howher ensemble Pallaskenry, Paula McCormack from caught the judge’s eye, Gemma said: Thurles, DonnaOllerenshaw from THE style stakes were high at “I wastold itwas a favourite as I had Tuam, county Galway,Mary Woulfe Limerick Racecourse over the mixed together some high street, from Abbeyfeale, and Stacey O’L e a r y weekend as women gathered for the high-end and DIY bits to createthe f ro m K i l l a r n ey. COUNCILLORS REPEAT CALL TO RECRUIT Sunway Holidays Most Stylish Ladies entire outfit. I think it really stood All ladies whoregistered forthe DIETICIAN TO SUPPORT LIMERICK DIABETES c o m p et i t io n . out .” Sunway Holidays Most Stylish Ladies PATIENT S On Saturday, Gemma McDonagh Emma Perkins from Knocklong, competition enjoyed aprosecco from Headford inCounty Galway county Limerick came second, reception and hadtheir imagetaken Pat Forster walked away with a holiday for two winning aluxury overnightstayfor by the Ladies Day team. I am simply astounded that these essential people to Kusadasi, Turkey including two people in a Junior SuiteinThe Judge Stuart Montgomery of services for diabetics are not already in return flights, 20kg Luggage, SavoyHotel Limericktoinclude Stu a rt’s Select Style said: “I had such p l a ce ! Transfers and the services of a dinner and a bottle of Veuve Cliquot a toughtask narrowing down the top Sunway Representative in Resort. C h a m pa g n e. three from the 10 finalists, the style Christine Gleeson Gemma wowed in a black and gold Emma wore a green dress from was amazing.” In fairness regular visits to a dietician might solve alot of the Zara shirtdress withpuff sleeves Phoenix V and a hat by Marc Sunway Holidays returned as title hospital crisis issues were have in this country from her own business, DressMeUp Millinery. sponsor forthe sixth year forthe Rentals, in Galway. Alex Butler from Ballyedmond, Sunway Holidays Most Stylish Lady Mary Mollica A stunning Design by Shimmer county Cork came third, winning a c o m p et i t io n . I really like this councillor. She's new to politics and not jaded headpiece from Jennifer’s Hat VIP dayat LimerickRacecourse for Sunway Holidays is Ireland's and actually seems to give a damn about her constituents. Emporium completed Gemma’s look four people in 2019. largest Irish owned and multi Thank you. As for the hospital, it gets worse every day. along with black and gold Kurt Geiger Alexworea Umit Kutlukcream award-winning holidaycompany heels and a vintage bag and gloves. outfit witha headpiece by Marc with over 70 destinations worldwide “I’vebeen going to theLimerick M i l l i n e r y. including: Summer and WinterSun, races for years now, I’vebeen in the Ten finalists each receiveda €100 Worldwide, USA & Canada, Cruise, top ten a few times but I’ve never won voucher forPhoenix VBoutique River Cruise,Sunsail, Neilson, Mark w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e top prize– I’m absolutely delighted,” located in Cork and Dublin. Warner Beach Clubs, Club Med, said Gemma. The tenfinalists included EscortedTours, Adventure Touring w w w. f a ce b o o k . co m / L i m e r i c k L e a d e r “I’ve the holidaybooked already Siobhán Kennedy from Tournafulla, Holidays,Weddings & Honeymoons, Limerick_Leader forthe end of May, I’m going withmy county Limerick, MóiraO’To o l e Turkey and Lapland. W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER 11 THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 12 NEWS BE PART OF THE CONVERSTATION Commissioner to seek support for new garda stations

The site of the proposed development (in orange) at St N e ss a n’s Road, Dooradoyle Concerned residents strongly oppose plan fo r ‘m o n s t r o s i t y ’on site adjacent to pub

DAVID HURLEY d av i d . h u r l ey @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e and theapplicant has been asked to submit a revised proposal in its response to PLANNERS have expressed the request for further strong concerns about i n fo r m at i o n . proposals to construct more An UrbanDesign than 50 apartments at a site Statementhas also been next to the Unicorn pub in requested from the D o o rad oyl e. applicant as has a full Traffic Unicorn Bar & Restaurant PICTURE: LIAM and TransportAssessment Commissioner Drew Harris made his comments at a recent meeting of the Limerick Joint Policing Committee Ltd is seekingpermission for BU R K E and Road Safety Audit. a’Build to Rent’ re s id e n t i a l The applicant has also apartment scheme,that will been advised tonote and have shared amenities. respond to the objections The proposed which have been receivedin that the process toidentify thelocations of development will D rew relation to the proposed Population: new stations will begin shortly. incorporate eight studio d eve l o p m e nt . “We will startprogramming within the apartments, 37 one-bedroom Harris says any In its submission, the organisation and asking for, ineffect, bids,” apartments and eight Dooradoyle Estateand St The better he said adding that An Garda Siochana will two-bedroom apartments set Ne s s a n’s Park Residents new garda stations also work closely with theOffice of Public out across asingle block the case Association expressed Wo rk s . ranging in height from four to concernsabout whatit says is must ‘fit into’ The internal process will see each garda nine stories. that is the “extremely high density” division in the country submitting its There will also be a “made, the requirements to the relevant assistant of accommodation units Ireland 2040 plan basement and underground within thedevelopment. commissioner for consideration before final car parking. This, it submits, “will be DAVID HURLEY more we proposals areforwarded to Garda A dozen objections and d av i d . h u r l ey @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e detrimental to the residential H ead qu a r te r s . submissions have been will get amenity of the area for While notgiving guarantees, Mr Harris received and Limerick City THE garda commissioner says he is COMMISSIONER DREW existing and new residents”. saidany new stations in Limerick will have to and County Council has now supportive of calls for new garda stations The Association has also HARRIS “fit in”withthe Ireland 2040 vision and will requested further in areas of high-population growth such as raised concerns about the have to be supported by a business case. Information from the Castletroy and Raheen. impacton traffic, theheight “The better the case that is made, the more ap p l ic a n t . However, DrewHarris says such projects of the proposed development we will get from the overall capital pie,” he “The Planning Authority take a considerable time to complete as there and the lack of parking spaces saidadding that any proposalswill have to has very serious concerns is aprocess to havethem included in the for visitors. be ambitious and future-proofed. that the proposed capital budget. In a separate objection, the “The population of small villages and developmentas outlinedis At a meeting of theLimerick JointPolicing Gouldavoher Residents towns have grown exponentially the last five incongruous to the local area Committee, Commissioner Harris said Association describes the to ten years and thepopulation is setto by reason of its height, scale existing population levels and expected proposed developmentas a grow even further over the next ten to 20 and mass and would be growth are the keyfactors in deciding where “monstrosity that is totally years so it would, at least, be nice to keep pace detrimental to the character any new stations are to be located. outof character withthe with that,” said Commissioner Harris. of thearea and theamenity of “I’m very mindful of population growth development of the village Currently, the only new garda station neighbouring properties,” and I’m very mindful thatsome towns, in and its residential area”. approved for the Limerick division is in states a letter sent by the particular,are expanding hugely,” he said Several other individuals Newcastle West while therefurbishment of council to the applicant. adding that a number of existinggarda and families who live in the Castleconnell garda station is a priorty. Planners have highlighted stations are no longer in the best locations. locality have also made Members of the JPC agreed that they anumber ofspecific The commissionertold themeeting the written submissions to the should be briefed on theprocess to secure concerns and observations newcapital plan will be rolled outin 2021 and c ou n c i l . new garda stations at their next meeting. W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER 13

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CORK WATERFORD TRALEE LIMERICK OPENING HOURS Blackpool Shopping Centre 021 4220850 Morgan Street, Ballybricken Mile Height Retail Park Delta Retail Park, Ballysimon Road Mon –Sat 9.30am –6pm, Sarsfield Road, Wilton 021 4343377 051 859532 066 7194274 061 436640 Fri 9.30am –8pm, Sun 1pm –5pm THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 14 NEWS LEADER I m p rove d BRIEF S signage to Recycle your Small delay to Christmas waste help city LIMERICK City and County Council is tourists urging householders to reuse or repurpose as NEW, improved signage to much of their Christmas riverside plan help tourists better find waste as they can. their way around the city The council is Decision due on tower in the coming weeks are on the way this year. encouraging members Planning: It comes after Failte of the public to avail of Ireland awarded council NICK RABBITTS the services which it n i c k @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e €500,000 in a grant to provides in an effort to provide wayfinding reduce the amount of signage across Limerick. waste going to landfill. LIMERICK Council has requested the Now, the local authority Household Christmas developers of a planned new riverside is seeking a consultant to Trees can be brought, tower inthe city to upgrade the manage the preparation free of charge, to any of lighting in part ofaneighbouring of a “way f i n d i n g , the three recycling s tre et . orientation and amenity centres in As revealed by our sister interpretation strategy” Mungret, Kilmallock newspaper,the Limerick Leader, for Limerick. and Newcastle West Kirkland Investments has returned to The strategy will while the local the table with revised plans foran include providing signs authority will be officecomplex as part ofa operating three multi-million euro development at additional one-day Bishop's Quay. Welcome: Cllr collection points for Original plans – unveiled in Daniel Butler Christmas trees. September 2016 – were for a 14-storey These will take place block, incorporating high-grade at Musg rave’s Market office space. Place Car Park, Park However, this has since been Road on Saturday, revised downward to seven-storeys. January 4; At Watch Following the lodging of a for the full metropolitan House Cross, Moyross planning application, the council has area, and creating on Friday, January sought further informationfromthe “distinct district”areas in 10 and at Our Lady of developer, in a move which delays the the centre. L ou rd e s decision date, initially expected An early architectural impression of the proposed development, which has Fine Gael councillor Church, Childers Road earlier this month. been halved in size since the initial impression above was submitted D|aniel Butler has on Saturday, January 11. As part of athree-page dossier of welcomed the move. The trees will be requests, council planners have calledon Kirkland Developments Development Plan,”they added. He said: “It's been on shredded and used as stated that the public lightingin – headed by Rudi Butler,the son of And anumber ofother changesto the books for a while. It's bark mulch throughout Henry Street from its junction with former prominent citydeveloper surroundingfootpaths arealso being taken on a new the city and county by Lower Cecil Street to the end of the Robert Butler – to puttogether a sought for theapplication to significance with the the Parks Department. proposed property line should be revised maintenance plan and p ro c e e d . moving of the car park, upgradedatthe same time as the s c h e du l e . Sources close tothe developer say, things will start to d eve l o p m e nt . “The applicant is also requested to it will “set thestandard” for building happen soon. It's a big Free admission to They are seeking revised planning set out the planningrationale for the developments in Limerick, and investment, and it's a big Holiday Show details providing forthe new reduction heightof building deliver 100 construction jobs, and, in deal, and it is really l i g ht i n g . permitted on site having regard to the time,hundreds of permanentoffice important for our AS the new year begins Meanwhile, the local authority has policies setout onthe LimerickCity p o s i t io n s . tourism offering.” thoughts turn to holidays and the sun. And if thinking of heading abroad the Holiday Show in the Call for ban South Court Hotel on City and county house prices on cigarette Saturday and Sunday January 11 and 12 is a machines must for you with free on rise, despite national drop ad m i s s io n . The show, run in A Limerick Institute of association with LIMERICK house prices have risen in “There is a marked decline in the Technolog y lecturer has Shannon Airport, 2019, despite averageprices amount of cash buyers in the market – called for a complete ban on returns for a fifth year nationwide dropping for thefirst down from 27%to 19% –and that is cigarette vending machines in a new time since the crash. increasing theinfluence of the in Ireland. ve nue w i th ex h i b i to r s The average price of a Central Bank’s mortgage lending Dr Frank Houghton has from across the globe, three-bedroom semi-detached house restrictions on the market. challenged the government all under one roof with in Ireland has fallen in value by0.6 “There seems tobe a direct to follow the majority of its free admission. percent, while prices are up 3.1 correlation between enquiry levels European neighbours and Visitors will get the percent in Limerick cityand 2.5 and thedifficulty inobtaining impose a complete ban on opportunity to percentin thecounty,the Q4 Irish mortgage approvals, and we have cigarette vending machines s e cu r e s h ow Independent REAAverage House seen time taken to sell rise from five to from hotels, bars, and other o n ly h ol i d ay d e a l s , Price Index has found. sevenweeks as theyearhas gone on,” public places. receive expert advice The average price of a family home he added. Dr Houghton said: “The from travel in Ireland €234,704, while a similar “The second-hand market has Irish Government previously professionals and be in homein county Limerickcosts become extremely price sensitive aimed to ban the sale of with a chance to €165,000 and €205,000 in the city. across the country and it is the areas cigarettes from vending win holiday prizes. Aer It was also found that a house took House prices are on the rise with quality housing stock available machines in both 2014 and Lingus, Air Canada, on average eight and a half weeks to for under €270,000 that are achieving 2016, a move that was never American Airlines, sell in Limerick. of last week. highest growth. i m p l e m e nte d . Delta Air Lines, Ryanair The survey concentrateson the “Across the board, agents are “Once again there is adrop-off in “We are entering a new and United Airlines who sale price of Ireland's typical home reporting that the supply of finance to viewings for four-bedroomed decade, so it is past time that reach countries far and type,the three-bed semi, givingan the market has decreased as banks housing in certain areas wherethey the Government stood over wide across the world up-to-date picture of the use up their exceptions to the rules in are priced over €400,000, illustrating its previous assertions and will attend. second-hand property market across the early part of the year,” said REA the influence of the Central Bank simply ban these machines,” I re l a n d ’s towns and cities to the close spokesperson Barry McDonald. r u l e s .” he added. W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER 15

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www.allens.ie followusonfacebook THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 16 NEWS BE PART OF THE CONVERSTATION Christmas ruined after Castletroy food fight

RYAN O’ROU R K E Eve. wedges and chicken fillet rolls. We will have to repaint the walls, R ya n . o r o u r ke @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e The incident occurred after five There was an awful mess and a big and we will be hoping that the or six individuals, who witnesses clean up. It wasn’t very nice for the parents will pay for that. But so far A GROUP of Limerick students say appeared to be heavily staff to be cleaning that up on not one parent has come in to offer spoiled Christmas for staff at a intoxicated, then started a “fo o d Christmas Eve,”he told The Leader. to pay," Mr Gleeson said. service station after a food fight f i g ht .” In a video that circulated on “I would hope that the young broke out in the early hours of Staff, many of whom had young social media, the youths can be men involved would have the Christmas morning, causing more families, stayed in the shop until seen throwing various items of character to come in and apologise than €2,000 worth of damage. 6am to clean the shop. food at each other, including one to the staff that were affected. Around 100 students, who are Shane Gleeson, who owns the youth who can be seen using a soup Criminal damage is being believed to be secondary school shop said he has never seen this ladle to fire soup across the shop. investigated by gardai. Criminal students, had gathered at the Inver kind of behaviour before. “Using CCTV we have identified charges will be brought. It is the and Spar station on the Dublin “It was a food fight more than the five or six who were the centre first time I have ever seen this The staff of the shop stayed until Road on the night of Christmas anything. They were throwing of it, and we know their parents. b e h av iou r,”he added. 6am Christmas morning to clean

City transport could get trackless plan

NICK RABBITTS hoped will improve bus times n i c k @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e on the 304, as it will prohibit cars sharing lanes. AUNIVERSITY ofLimerick However, hebelieves the (UL) graduate has produced a only way to inspire blueprint to introduce confidence around this is to revolutionary new trackless introducenew trams in abid trams on the city to Castletroy to attractdrivers outoftheir c o r r id o r. cars and onto a regular, Corbally man Fionan scheduled tram service. Coughlan, pictured, is to He has already held talks make a submission to the with local authority bosses on L i m e r ic k - M etro p o l i ta n the scheme, and has sounded Transport Strategy 2020, out several councillors. calling for thefacilityto “My vision is withthis eventually replace the trackless team, people will Ian Cleary form Tony Connolly's, helps Tadhg Bogan, Jack Scanlan, Rian Murphy and Eimhin Prendergast from Ennis delay-ridden 304 be more willingand Road with their purchases at the St Stephen's Day sales PICTURE: BRENDAN GLEESON service – and supportive of then possibly giving road extend it space to it across the than a c i ty. bu s ,” he C u r re ntl y s a id , The ‘l a n d s c a p e’ of only in p oi nt i n g use in the out its M id d l e c o n s tr uc t io n East, wou l d a trac k l e s s dwarf the sales has changed tram is cost of c o n s id e re d Dub l i n’s Black Friday sales have taken over as being a Luas system. St Stephen's Day: c ro s s ove r A trackless between a tram system, he RYAN O'ROURKE Murphy, Ennis Road and Eimhin R ya n . o r o u r ke @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e conventional tram network, pointed out, would also speed Prendergast, also of Ennis Road were light rail and a bus service. people getting off and on the giving each other some honest Unlike trams and light rail, vehicle, something which has “THE landscape of retail has opinions on potential purchases. there would be no need for been highlighted as a major changed. There arenow asmany Ian Cleary who wasgoing overhead wires, withthe problem on the 304. sales from clicks asthose onthe between manning thetil and electrical vehicles being “The perception of bus b r ic k s .” assisting customers describeditas powered by on-ground transport in Limerick has This is according to Noelle “tipping away nicely”. sensors. been and still is perceived to Connolly,from Connolly Man, who “There was agood rush this “I t ’s something which be a poor alternative to the has noticed ashift in the number of morning and it has been constant suits Limerick. It’s not as c a r. people taking part in the since we opened. Tommy Hilfiger expensive as light rail or “Bus services in Limerick post-Christmas sales. Aoibheann Fleming helping Lisa has been good, wool coatshavebeen trams like the Luas, which are are generallyregarded as a “Generally it worksout as about Riordan with a bargain at Nevil's good and jeans,Tommy and G-Star so costly because you need to second class mode of thesame as last year.The average have all been selling very good. There dig up roads to put down steel transport withmany people footfall was lowerbut the average The doors opened to shoppers at is up to 30% and 50% off a lot of stock,” tracks and erect poles with upgrading toa car assoon as spend washigher,”said Ms 11am at their Patrick Street shop. Ian explained. electric cables,”he said, “We they can afford to do so,” he C o n n o l l y. “It is unfortunate thatwe have to Nev i l ’s Shoes on O’Connell Street d o n’t have the patronage to be s a id . “The Black Friday Dales have open St Stephens Day, but you have also opened their doors at 11ambut able to fund something as Planning is ongoing for a taken a lot of thefrenzy out of the to make hay while the sun shines. people had gathered outside at expensive as a Luas.” tram network in Ireland’s post-Christmas sales. The mayhem There is awonderful cohort of 1 0. 5 5 a m . International business second city, Cork. youused to see is gone. If you buya customers that are passionate about “We have 20% off and 50% off graduate Fionan pointed out Fionan believes Adare’s jacket on sale in the Black Friday buying in-store,”Ms Connolly some shoes,”said floor manager the council is already hostingof theRyder Cupin sales, you are not going to come in finished. Helen O’Sullivan. “Boots are the big planning a Quality Bus 2026 provides awindow of and buy it again in the January sales,” Friends Tadhg Bogan, Ennis seller. Flat boots more so than Corridor (QBC) between the opportunity to develop she added. Road, Jack Scanlan, Limerick, Rían h e e l s .” city centre and UL, which is transport locally. W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER 17

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ABOVE: New Year's Eve was also known as 'Oíche na Coda Móire - 'the night of the big portion’ LEFT: People would gather around the hearth and remember years gone by on New Year's Eve. Traditions and customs of New Ye a r ’s Eve in Ireland year's ago ateon December 31 the December 31 carried traditions of nightof thebig portion’since perennial worries of its own. Being the first visitorto a people would eat alargerthan getting transporthome house on New Year'sDay wasa normal meal toensure food in from house parties, pubs popular custom but the warmth of plenty for the coming year. Another and restaurantswill see your welcome was largely wayofensuring plenty wastomake manyNew Year's revelers makea dependent on the colour of your a cakewhich wasthen pounded Lhasty resolution that the following h a i r. against the door of the house three year they will definitely be staying Unless he arrived empty times while a prayer was said by the at home. handed, adark haired man would h ou s ew i fe. For decade upon decade, be greeted gladly because it was This would chase the bad luck especially in rural Ireland, New believed that he would bring plenty outofthe house and invitethe good Year's Eve was about exactly that - of good luck. spirits in. In other areas the man of staying in. However, a red headed woman's the house would take three bites New Year was nevertruly abig arrival meantill fortune even if her outofthe cake and then throwit thing in Ireland -especially for arms were weighed down withall against thefront door,in thename farming communities for who the thetokens of what wasknown as of the Trinityand banish hunger fortunes of thecrops were all 'first footing' - bread and coal. Red from thehouse. After this the i m p o rta nt . haired females apparently tended family would then gather up the Irish New Yeartraditions in to stay at home on New Year's Eve. fragments of the cake and eat it. agricultural areas, such as they are, In fact to prevent bad luck, Many farmersrepeated this areall aboutthe coming twelve families sometimes sentout a dark ceremonyat thedoor of the byre to m o nth s . haired member of the family ensureplentiful fodderfor the One belief was that no water immediately after midnightand c ows . could be drawn from thewell after had them walk back in though the People tried to ensure that no the sunwent down on New Year's door.All dark haired boys in the food was taken away from the house First footing was a New Year's Eve tradition in Ireland Eve. area would visit thehouses and be on New Years Eve and beggars knew All the waterrequired needed to welcomed with giftsof sweets or better than to approach ahouse be inside the house before that and m o n ey. looking for food. luc k . of predicting thepolitical future of noneof it could leave thehouse Anything bad thathappened on Another New Years Eve Irish Well into the eveningon New the countryby checking which way until thenext day. Defying this New Year's Eve wasconsidered tradition was that young girl's put Year'sEve inIreland therewould the wind blows atmidnight on New belief meant that the family would moresignificant thecloser it wasto mistletoe under theirpillows on always be a small group gathered Yea r ’s Eve. be faced with a drought inthe new m id n i g ht . New Year’s Eve, in hopes of around thefireplace, laughing and If the windisfrom thewest, yea r. It wasbelieved that therewas dreaming about their future joking. Sooner or later, the thereis achancethat good fortune There wasalso atraditionthat only acertain amount of luckinthe hu sba n d . conversation would turn to will reign that year. If thewind is no moneycould bespentonNew worldand everything that could be On New Year’s Eve night, reminiscing about Ireland. from the east, however, the British Year'sDay. Nothing could be done toclaim ashare of it hadto be families would remember those The old ones, well on their way will prevail. brought out of a home and anyone d o n e. who has passed away that year with a few glasses of the hard stuff, And, after the stroke of midnight visiting should makesurethey It was also important tobegin before by setting a place for them at would get all misty-eyed as they the man of thehouse would recite came bearing agift. Giving the New Year with a spotlessly clean the dinner table and leaving the remembered times past and the thefollowing verse: “May your nets something away meant givingyour house signifying a fresh startto the door unlatched. stories would begin in the lightof always be full, Your pockets never money awayand surely no sensible New Year. Anyone entering the house after just thefire and candles burning in empty, Your horse not cast a shoe, person would do that. New Year'sEve was also known midnight by the front door would the windowsill. Northe devil look at you In the The strokeof midnighton as “Oíche na CodaMóire,”- ‘th e leaveby thebackdoor forgood There was also an Irish tradition coming year.” W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER 19

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Valid for2people staying midweekuntilMarch 31st 2020. Offer subject to availability.Terms &Conditions Apply. Find us on social #iNUACollection THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 20 PICTURE ESSAY

Taking the plunge at the Christmas Day Swim at the Boat House at the University of Limerick Frosty dip for Christmas Christmas Day Swim at the University of Limerick P i c t u re s : Brendan Gleeson

Emma Doyle, Monaleen, Caoimhe Ryan, Annacotty and Chloe Tobin, Annacotty, warm up after finishing the Christmas Swim at UL

Criona Burns and her daughter, Kate Gleeson getting out of the water after the Christmas Swim W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER PICTURE ESSAY 21

Brian Dillon, Ailbhne Dempsey, Kevin Dennehy, Aisling Armshaw, Mark Dennehy, John Ryan and Aoife Candid McGuiness, after finishing the Christmas Swim Co m m e n t By SPARTACUS

● IS there anything to be road s . said for another Mass? Now the electric scooter There is nothing like share service Lime - akin to Christmas to draw the the Coke a Cola bike crowds to a church. scheme - is urging the Spartacus knows of one government to legalise person who hadn’t been e-scooters in the Republic inside the walls of a church but only for use on roads for a full 12 months, only to and cycle lanes, and with a go twice in the past week - capped maximum speed of Christmas Eve and of 25km per hour. Christmas morning. Lime, runs a shared She loves the choir, she e-scooters scheme in more says. This writer went to a than 40 cities globally, and nine o’clock Mass in a it will be interesting to see county church on if the government gives the Christmas morning to find go-ahead. Nice way to go to it only one third full. work, especially in the Not one song was sung summer, hop on your and the congregation e-scooter and avoid the found themselves back in traffic jams. their cars 36 minutes later. “Is there anything to be ● BY all accounts said for another Mass?” restaurants and pubs in smiled one husband in jest the city had a great to his wife, clearly chuffed Christmas, but some at the simplicity of the stories leave you o c c a s io n . wondering where society is going...... One well-known publican had a group in ●OMG - which to you of from what can be an older generation described as a very means Oh My God - was august institution. my reaction to the latest “You would not word to hit the believe it, they wrecked headlines in the the place. Every national newspapers. decoration we put up It is ‘s e l f i ti s ’. was taken, they caused This is, I am told, an havoc. I don't know addiction to posting what it was all about, s el f ie s . whether or not they Leading cosmetic were used to drinking, surgeon, Dr Patrick but there was no excuse Treacy says many of his for the carry on,”one clients are so obsessed publican who contacted with taking photos of this paper explained. themselves - and then Others have had their editing them with filters fill with groups wearing and manipulation tools - Christmas jumpers and that it is distorting doing the “12 pubs of their self image. C h r i s tm a s .” Borderline selfitis is “I just barred them taking three selfies a all, by the time they got day without posting to my place most of them; acute is posting them were drunk and three a day and chronic falling around the place selfitis is posting six and annoying regulars,” selfies a day. said another. I think these people John Murphy, Louise Murphy, Christy and Aisling Power and Cian Murphy all set for the Christmas Swim at UL have just too much time ..... on their hands and need a real job. ●One of my least favourite ..... post-Christmas traditions is now in full swing – t h e ●YOU don't see too many selling of presents gifted electric scooters around over the holiday period. Limerick, but there are a Across Facebook, you f e w. can see people selling their I have noticed how some clothes, perfumes and use footpaths, the other are gadgets that have recently on the roads. been gifted. I can I am told that legally understand the fact that they are an MPV, so you the presents may not have need tax and insurance, been to your liking, but at but of course you can't get least have the decency not tax and insurance as they to plaster the fact across are not legal on public social media. Brian Dillon Assumpta Park Billy Cantillion all ready for the Christmas Swim THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 Edited by Nick Rabbitts e n i c k @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e t 061 214596 m 087 6615151 LEADER BUSINESS Twitter @nick468official Siobhan t h a n ks Hoteliers ‘expecting f u n d ra i s e rs

THE chief executive of the humanitarian aid agency and Limerick native Siobhan a tough new year’ Walsh has thanked those who took part in a charity Jobs: Just one event on Christmas Day. Hundreds of people from in five hotels across the county took part in the Goal mile on December 25, with events plan to recruit taking place at the Crecora GAA Pitch, the UL Arena, more staff in Ballybrown and Fedamore The Goal mile is one of New Year I re l a n d ’s largest and longest running fundraising events. NICK RABBITTS Ms Walsh said: “I was n i c k @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e Siobhan ACCOMMODATION providers across Walsh, Goal Limerick arebracing themselvesfor a difficult 2020, according to the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF). The Shannon branch of the industry body is reporting that only a third of proud to see such a turnout local hotels are reporting apositive from my home county. outlook for2020, asthe uncertainty Thanks to GOAL Mile over Brexit, and the high cost of doing organisers in Limerick and business take their toll, leading to a around Ireland millions of slowdown in visitor growth. euros have been raised to Central Statistics Offices figures support Goal’s work in the released nationally showjust a 1.5% insurances costs is well documented. Dermot Kelly, Shannon Limerick supports 11,500 jobs and developing world since the increase in overseas visitors to the end of Our members arealso reporting Branch chairman of contributes €327m to the local economy first Goal Mile was staged in November, compared to a 5.5% increase significant pressure from rising local the Irish Hotels a n nu a l l y. 1 9 82 .” for the eleven month to end of November authority rates.” Federation, extreme Elsewhere, with aslowdown in She also praised Goal’s 2018. Sevenin 10 hoteliers sawa fall-offin left, pictured in 2017 growth, hoteliers reported that just one agency staff. Dermot Kelly, the chairman of the business from Great Britain, while over with Brian Hanrahan, in five hotels areplanning to increase Shannon branch of theIHF says half reported a fall in business levels Mary Fitzgerald, staffing levels over the next 12 months. governmentmust putmore supports in from Northern Ireland. Fitzgerald's Woodlands On a seasonal note, Christmas parties place to assist tourism businesses. Mr Kelly added: “Tourism is a highly Hotel Adare, Nico continue to beanimportant sourceof He said: “We continue to face high competitive business and these costs are Hernandez, John Gavin business for 60% of hotels nationally. ‘Milestone costs of doing business, which have been making us less attractive as a and Elaina Fitzgerald. Of those, over a third reported an compounded by the Government’s destination. Decisive action is needed Dermot is predicting a increaseinbusiness this festive season year for decision to increase the tourism VAT in nowtomitigatethe impactthis will have tough 2020 for compared to 2018 with a similar number last year’sBudget. The threat to on tourism, especially the regions.” h o t e l i e rs (32%) taking on additional staff forthe businesses posed by escalating He pointed outthat tourism in Christmas period. technology’

MANAGEMENT at Dell EMC in Raheen have predicted 2020 will be a “m i l e s t o n e” year for technology. Sean O’Reilly, who is S i s t e rs’ app: Huggs from 145 nations Dell’s vice-president and Limerick site leader at the campus in Limerick, which WELL-WISHERSfrom 145 different Jacqui, “I t ’s such an easy way to make employs 1,000 people, said: countriesused atelephone theirday,nomatter howfar away they “The explosion in the growth application developed in Limerickto a re.” of data and increasing send New Years greetings this week. One of the reasons the sisters believe computer power will result City based company Huggnote has Huggnote has done sowell worldwide is in emerging technologies developed musical huggs to send to because of howeasy it is to use, with no becoming ever more evident friendsand family around the world for need to download anything onto your in our everyday lives –f r o m f re e. p h o n e. how we work and play, to Founded by sisters Jacqui and Perry Perry said: “Music releases the same how we do business in Meskell, Huggnote offers an alternative happy hormones as aphysical hug.Plus I re l a n d .” to texts or emojis – by allowing users to i t’sextremely emotional and apowerful He said he is excited use thepower of music to take their rekindler of memories. So when you for the future of Dell’s greetings to a new level. And it is free. combine that with a heartfelt message, operation in the city, adding: This New Years Eve, it was i t’s very special to receive. Many users “Our Innovation Lab in anticipated that countries from Angola tell us how they were moved to tears by Limerick provides a critical to Americaused Huggnote to send a their hugg.” AI and Internet of Things unique personalised message. She alsoacknowledged how test-bed for businesses.” I t’s a major boost for the firm, which loneliness is a major issue at this time of Mr O’Reilly also predicted won the title of best emerging business yea r. the advent of fifth generation at last year’s Limerick Chamber Huggnote is currentlyraising telephony technology will Regional Business Awards. pre-seed investment in order todevelop “completely change” the data ”Nothing uplifts like music,”s a ys Huggnote founders Jacqui and Pery Meskell the business further. ga m e. W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER NEWS 23

Aisling Walsh, Mainister, Aoife Morrissey, Mungret, Laoise Carr, Ardnacrushna,Jo Burke, Crecora and Helena Dee, Dooradoyle CHRISTMAS RACING FESTIVAL AT THE LIMERICK RACECOURSE Pictures: BRENDAN GLEESON

Jennifer O'Carroll, Kilteely with Louise and Johnny Cogan, Amy Collopy and Shauna Alex Bulter, Midleton and Donna Ollerenshaw,Galway K i l d a re Hughes, Rhebogue

Anne Culhane, Croom with Liam and Natasha Lynch, Adare Mgan Meaney, Sixmilebridge, Emma Kirwin, Lynwood Park and Sarah Hannigan, Aspel Gardens

Josette Hogan, Kay Fitzgerald and Maeve Egan, all from Danielle Madden and Eoin O'Sullivan, Dooradoyle John and Anne Garrett, Patrickswell Sixmilebridge THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 24 LEADER LIFE 20 NewYear's Eve food traditions from right around the world

Poland G re e ce

In Poland pickled herring is In Greece, vasilopita is a round eaten at midnight to bring a coffee cake that's usually year of prosperity and bounty. made with almonds and is traditionally baked with a coin inside of it. The coin is believed to bring good luck to the person who finds it.

Japan M ex i co

The Japanese eat toshikoshi In Mexico Rosca de reyes is soba at midnight on New bread baked in the shape of a Year's Eve — the long ring and topped with candied buckwheat noodles meant to fruit. It contains some sort of symbolize a long life. Eaters trinket, which is a symbol of aren't supposed to cut their luck for whomever uncovers noodles, but instead slurp it. them down whole.

I re l a n d U SA

Some historians say that the In the southern states of the Irish used to leave buttered U.S.A one theory suggests that bread on their doorsteps on black eyed peas are New Year's Eve, which local considered lucky because they children would then come and were the only crop not eaten pick up. by the Union soldiers during the Civil War, meaning that the peas were the only thing that kept the Confederate soldiers alive.

S c a n d a n av i a A rge n t i n a

Often, the Swedish and the In the hopes that it will help Norwegians place a single them keep their job or find a almond in their rice pudding; new, better job, Argentinians whoever finds it is supposed eat beans on New Year's Day. to be prosperous in the upcoming year.

Ko re a G e r m a ny

Eating this soup called Germans like to eat doughnuts tteokguk filled with rice cakes, known as Berliners (or meat, and vegetables is a Krapfen) around midnight on group activity for Koreans, and New Year's Eve. These is believed to give eaters good doughnuts are topped with luck for the year ahead. powdered sugar and usually Koreans also see the new year filled with some sort of fruit as a type of birthday jam, but on this occasion, celebration, so tteokguk is also many people play jokes on said to grant everyone another their guests and fill the year of age once eaten. doughnuts with mustard. W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER LEADER LIFE 25 20 NewYear's Eve food traditions from right around the world

I ra n Belarus

Faloodeh, a dessert made with Unmarried women in Belarus vermicelli noodles and a use corn kernels to see who sugary syrup, is made for will get married first in the multiple special occasions in upcoming year. Each woman Persia, one of them being makes a pile of kernels in Nowruz, the Persian New front of her before a rooster is Ye a r. set loose. It's said that whoever owns the pile that the rooster goes to first will be the first to marry.

Holland S co t l a n d In Holland Oliebollen translates to oily balls; these treats are Whiskey is a must during the small balls of dough that have Scottish new year — been fried, covered in powered Hogmanay —which is sugar, and stuffed with dried celebrated on the night of currants or raisins. According to January 1st. After toasting at legend, those who used to eat midnight, "first footing" occurs, oliebollen would survive the which is when neighbors wrath of Perchta, a Pagan bring food and drink to each goddess. Perchta's sword was said others' homes. to slip off the stomachs of those who ate the greasy doughnuts.

China I t a ly

The dumplings eaten for the Along with fish, Italians like Chinese New Year — to eat lentils during New celebrated at the end of Year's celebrations. Because January —are known as jiaozi they look similar to coins, the in Mandarin and are regarded round seeds are said to as a symbol of wealth and symbolize good fortune and longevity. It's common to prosperity in the new year. shape the jiaozi in small circles, meant to resemble the shape of ingots, early Chinese m o n ey.

T u r key El Salvador

The Turkish eat pomegranates A minute before midnight on on New Year's Eve, which New Year's Eve, those in El symbolize fertility and Salvador crack an egg into a abundance for the upcoming glass of water. Once the clock ye a r. strikes 12, everyone decides what their yolk looks like, which represents what the new year will bring.

India Spain

In India, New Year's Eve is As the clock strikes midnight celebrated in the spring with on New Year's Eve, the rice and lentils. Again, the Spanish quickly eat 12 grapes, l e n t i l s’ coin-like shape one by one, which represent represent future prosperity. each month of the new year. Sweet grapes represent good months and sour represent bad. 26 THE LEADER www.limerickleader.ie WEDNESDAY,JANUARY1,2020 Limerick Leader, 54 O’Connell Street, Limerick Email: advertising@ limerickleader.ie Web: wwwlimerickleader.ie Call: 061 214531/545/ 500 0

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Pictured at the Shannon Region Ambassador Awards 2019 in Dromoland Castle are Dr Colin Fitzpatrick, Lisa Kiely, Jane Toal and Professor Daniel Toal

Pictured at the Shannon Region Ambassador Awards 2019 in Dromoland Castle are Gillian Griffin, Adare Manor, Maria O’Gorman Skelly, The Strand Hotel and Anita Higgins and Michelle O’Brien from Adare Manor SHANNON REGION AMBASSADOR AWARDS Deirdre Ryan, Gwen Moore and Dr Anne O’Keefe from Mary Immaculate College and Dr Gerard Pictures: KATE DEVANEY/ILOVELIMERICK Downes, University of Limerick enjoying the awards

Pictured at the Shannon Region Ambassador Dr Anna O’Keefe, Mary Immaculate College Jeannette Ferguson and Roisin Hayes from Ann Goggin and Diarmuid O’Leary pictured at Awards 2019 in Dromoland Castle are Anne and Dr Gerard Downes, University of Mary Immaculate College the awards Lewis and Professor Elfed Lewis Limerick enjoying the awards

Pictured at the Shannon Region Ambassador Holly English, Shannon Region Conference Awards 2019 in Dromoland Castle are David Dr Una Bromell and Con Quigley enjoying the Dr Catherine Naughton and Brian Naughton and Sports Bureau, Sister Helen, the Ward and Tom Caffrey awards at Dromoland Castle attended the awards C h i l d re n’s Grief Centre, and Karen Brosnahan, manager of Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau

Pictured at the Shannon Region Ambassador Awards 2019 in Dromoland Castle are Mary Noreen and Noel O’Malley pictured at Pictured at the awards are Ruth Vaughan and Dr Anca Minescu and Seamus Walsh attended and Brendan O’M a l l ey Dromoland Castle Carol Walsh, The Savoy Hotel the awards at Dromoland Castle THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 28 NEWS SPONSORED CONTENT

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EYOURN WEEKLTY GUIDEER TO TWHAAT’S GOINGIN ON INM LIMERICKENT Heal Your Hole this January MIKE FINNERTY m i c h a e l . f i n n e r t y @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e "I appreciateyou have to get a Heal Your Hole babysitter, put aside a night, but in takes place at return, you'll get agreat nightout," the Lime Tree on AS a Corkwoman, Norma Sheahan she enthused. With the show tagline Friday, January is no stranger to Limerick. being "heal every hole in your life - 17 at 8pm "Mytwo sisters went tothe one hole at a time!" Heal Your Hole University of Limerick, and my may be the show audiences need family would visit the Limerick heading into a new decade. racetrack fairly often," she said. Its mix of comedyand pathos is Sheahanwas speaking to The sure to be one of themore Leader ahead of her newshow, Heal memorable evenings in your winter Your Hole,which plays theLime c a l e n d a r. Tree Theatre on January 17. "Beforethe show, wehavea Readers may be forgivenfor questions boxin thefoyer,and thinking it's a very provocative title, during theshow, I pick out where does it come from? questions and do asort of Agony "It comes from when Iwas on Aunt bit." Ireland's Fittest Family," she Owing to the script-free nature of revea l e d . that portion, it takes aseasoned “I fell off a container and on to my comedian toweather themore coccyx (tailbone) and Donncha obtuse questions -but Sheahan says and television, and she said moving a stage show." there's a full house." O'Callaghan told me "toget up off "improvisation is my forte." to stage is something "onher bucket Sheahan said for the show to Don't let her down, Limerick. your hole and get on with it!" "I might get one or two stupid list I wanted to check off," following fully ignite, a full house is optimal. Heal Your Hole takesplace at the Sheahanwas in rare form while questions anight, butthat's part of the passing of her mother. "I've been lucky enough to play in Lime Tree on Friday, January 17 at chatting about her show, and the fun of it!" "At this stage, I have no fear and some of the biggest theatres in 8pm. promised afun nightout for Sheahan isa veteranof theIrish nothing to lose," she said. Ireland, including the Lime Tree, Tickets arefrom €13 on the Lime Limerick audiences. culture scene, having acted in film "SoI mightaswell try my handat and the energy on stage is best when Tree website. THE LEADER www.limerickleader.ie WEDNESDAY,JANUARY1,2020 30 ENTERTAINMENT

BIGNIGHT OUT @ DA VINCENZO FOOD AND WINE HALL IN THE GEORGE HOTEL PICTURES: DAVE GAYNOR CathyO'Flaherty,Eoin Curleyand Regina McTigue at da Vincenzo Food and Wine Hall in the George Hotel

Michelle Gammell, RichardMeade and Edel QuigleyatdaVincenzo Food and Wine Hall in the George Hotel Cian Cavanagh and Ian Cookealso enjoyedthe festive atmosphereand food in the George Hotel

Seamus Quirke and Dermot O'Riordan also were at theGeorge Hotel Anita Lane and Elaine Rea WEDNESDAY,JANUARY 1, 2020 www.limerickleader.ie THE LEADER ENTERTAINMENT 31

John Butler and Sarah DalyatdaVincenzo Food and Wine Hall in the George Hotel Hannah Mullane and Jake Loughran at da Vincenzo Food and Wine Hall in the George Hotel

Liam Reillyand Emma O'Reilly Dave O'Hora and Dylan O'Neill at da Vincenzo Food and Wine Hall in the George Hotel

David O'Connor and Jennifer O'Brien Vera Saunders and Mary Daly Elba Diaz and Alvaro Soriano THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 32 E N T E RTA I N M E N T

Beauty And The Beast is at the Lime Tree this weekend Aladdin is at the University Concert Hall until this Sunday

A P PY New Year! We've all money and rent money on toys for made it through the joys It’s another #WeekendInLimerick —and what yourself. It runs from 10:30am to and terrors of Christmas, 3:30pm and tickets are €5. Hwe've survived the Krampus for a weekend! has the lowdown Seamus Ryan To celebrate Epiphany, another year and I'm guessing sometimes called Wo m e n's we're all currently 40% made of 6:30pm every day, except for aimed at 3-6 year olds. have an encore screening at 3pm on Christmas or Little Christmas but mince pie. If you're now feeling Sunday's shows, which are at 1pm Sunday. Ticket prices are €20 at the - and I cannot stress this enough - in any way guilty about dropping and 5:30pm. Tickets are €30 for Saturday (January 4) Odeon, €22 at the Omniplex and never Little Women's Christmas, the cultural parts of your life in adults and €25 for children. André Rieu is implausibly €17.50 at Vue. you have two Limerick options this favour of rampant gluttony, this Rounding out the Christmas popular among people of a certain Sunday for fancified tea and quietish weekend in Limerick season, this weekend is your last age who like a wee smattering of Sunday (January 5) ridiculously small finger can ease you into the new year chance to enjoy the thrills and classical music but don't want to There's a Toy Fair this Sunday sandwiches. It's the perfect with free storytime for the kids, (more often) spills of ice-skating at take it too seriously. His concerts at the Castletroy Park Hotel. It's experience-style present for an the last of the Christmas pantos Limerick On Ice in Arthur's Quay are explosive affairs of dancing, rather aimed at the speciality aged relative who knows how to and some little-heard classical Park. It's open till this Sunday, fireworks and a good hour of him collector, with dealers selling hold a teacup. You hold it by the music on Sunday! before disappearing from our lives waving at the audience and everything from dinky cars to handle - there you go, now you can for another year. Tickets for an pointing at other people who do hand-made wooden toys. all imbibe. The Castletroy Park T h u rs d ay (January 2) hour of skating are €17 for adults most of the heavy lifting. None of Assuming that Santa brought the Hotel will slide a three-tiered plate Children's storytime is at the and €15, though if you pick out the that is a crime. As he's hit 70 years children plenty of DLC for their of pastries and a single-tiered glass Granary Library this Thursday at 8pm sessions you can skate for an of age, there are live screenings of home console, you might be in of prosecco your way from 12:30pm 3:30pm. Aimed at kids between 3 extra hour for free. his 70 Years Young concert taking need of some TLC. And if that till 3pm for €30 a head, while the and 6, it's the one show you can go over all three Limerick cinemas comes in the form of a shiny boxed Limerick Dragons breast cancer to this week where falling asleep is F r i d ay (January 3) this Saturday, with encore version of that fire engine you survivors paddling & aquatic group a compliment. It's a free event. There's a special storytime for screenings on Sunday. It's at the accidentally left in a hotel in Bristol will serve you canapés and We're coming to the end of young people aged between 7 and 9 Omniplex in Dooradoyle, the on a family holiday when you were champagne in H ou s e between 3pm panto season for another year. This at the Granary Library this Friday Odeon in Castletroy and Vue on the two (for example - it might not be a and 6pm for €25. If you really like weekend is your last chance to at 3:30pm. It's a free event and you Ennis Road, so you can pick the fire engine in your case), you might tiny pastries you could go to both. catch the outlandish antics, feisty can expect the stories to be rather suburb that best suits your legs. be in luck. Of course, you're really Sagittarius Hiberniensis is a dames and chances to scream more sophisticated and dark than The live screening is at 7pm on in luck if you have zero offspring new Limerick-based choir and "Look out behind you!" at the ones at the usual library events Saturday and all three cinemas and can spend all of your food they're hosting their launch performers who know full-well concert at St Mary's Cathedral what's behind them. this Sunday at 5pm. Yes, it's a Limerick Panto Society's S c re e n i n g s convoluted name, translating to Beauty & The Beast runs at the of André The Irish (Male) Archer but all the Lime Tree Theatre until Sunday. Rieu's 70 best band names are taken. Except You know the story - a mopey Ye a rs for "Hitler's Dog", which probably hirsute gentleman hangs around in Young at isn't the best name for a choir, a castle, accompanied only by some cinemas though I hear it was a very forgiving talking cutlery, and persuades the this dog. The choir is made up of world's worst father to sell a we e ke n d teaching staff and former students daughter into slavery as a live-in of the Limerick School Of Music, as maid until she's firmly in the grip of well as members of the St Mary's Stockholm Syndrome and sees the Cathedral Choir. Their repertoire hairy guy as dating material. Tale will concentrate on sacred music, as old as time. 7:30pm on Thursday especially from the Baroque and and Friday, midday and 4pm on Renaissance eras, and this Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are Sunday's concert will include work €20.50 for adults and €18.50 for by the very underappreciated c h i l d re n . Heinrich Schütz and Tomás Luis A l ad d i n is also running till de Victoria. It's a free gig. Sunday at the University Concert Hall. The titular street rat is a All weekend young fella who can't stop rubbing The Hughie O'Donoghue his magical lamp, to the chagrin of exhibition is at the Hunt Museum his withered laundry-running until January 26. The four mother, but finds a princess who's exhibitions at Limerick City impressed by the size of his genie's Gallery run until January 26. All powers. Shows are at 2pm and free to see. W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER LEADER LIFE 33

Michelle Ryan, Jennifer, Summer, Molly McPhilipps with Catherine Rayn, all set for Aladdin at the University Concert Hall ALADDIN AT THE UNIVERSITY CONCERT HALL Pictures: BRENDAN GLEESON

The McMahon and Carswell fa m i l i e s , Raheen, at Aladdin at the U n ive rs i t y Concert Hall

Mary Kate, Chloe and Niamh Ryan, Ballina, enjoyed their outing at Aladdin over the holidays

Oliver, Flynn, Vicki and Johnathan Morrissey, Scotland and Paul, Gillian, Alex and Lucy Ryan, Newport Farranshone enjoying the panto

Jack Heffernan, Catherine Looby, Lucy, Siobhan and Darragh Ellen, Eoghan, Jack, Dan and Kevin Condon, Lisnagry, all set The Fitzgerald family went to see Aladdin at University Heffernan, Tipperary Town were at the panto for Aladdin at the University Concert Hall Concert Hall THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 34 LEADER LIFE

Traditions such as watching The Late Late Toy Show together can create happy family memories Let’s play and make memories that will last down the years

memories? It’s not the ‘big bang’ The Late Late Toy Show is the warmth, safety and nurturing. events such as trips to Florida (I ability to bring the nation’s As a parent, grandparent, uncle, MENTAL HEALTH have never been), it’s the way we families together, and enhance our or aunt, this is the key emotional connect with each other on a daily relationships and wellbeing. experience you are trying to create MATTERS ba s i s . You can use that opportunity to for your children to thrive. Often Family traditions become part create other family traditions. You we need an activity to connect — DR EDDIE MURPHY of the ‘l a n g u a g e’ of the family; they can use everyday routines such as such as playing, sport, drawing, CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST help keep us connected. They are bed time, taking a moment to talk, reading, etc. Now is the time to ADJUNCT ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR an expression of unity that read, pray or snuggle up, or reflect relax and allows your ‘inner child’ UCD SCHOOL OF PSYCHOLOGY strengthen family bonds. They on ‘three good things’th at an out to play. This can be such an provide a sense of continuity and happened today. uplifting and positive experience. feelings of belonging. This ‘Three Good Things’ Go and play this Christmas. Family traditions nurture and tradition helps children orientate love the Late Late Toy Show, gathered for the Toy Show. And foster for children's stability and towards a positive and grateful and this year’s was the best since my own family came along, security, all supporting family outlook. Positive psychology shows ever! I see it as part of the Oisín (now 11 years old) and wellbeing and emotional health. that grateful people tend to be fabric of Ireland, cosy and Darragh (who is nine), myself and Every year, The Late Late Toy happier, healthier and more Iwa r m . my wife Carol all settle in to watch Show offers us pure moments of fulfilled. ✱ Dr Eddie Murphy is a clinical The Toy Show creates family the goings on. Ryan always does an shared joy. This year there was Its funny how your memory psychologist, author and mental memories. Back in Laois when I amazing opening number and the sadness, too, as Gay Byrne wasn’t works. I remember my nanna in health expert. ONLINE CBT - was a young fella, we had a small tone is set for the evening. around. I think his spirit was there, Wate r fo rd ’ s brown bread had a STOP DEPRESSION - STOP bicycle shop so my dad was one of h oweve r . particular taste, and how my nanny ANXIETY - available at Sa nta’s‘h e l p e r s’ in Portarlington. T ra d i t i o n Fundamentally, the toys are just from Laois would sit in her chair… htt ps : / /st ratu s h e alth - Every year, without fail, we How can you forge family the props. The real magic dust of all these memories centred about c a re . ie / m e ntal - w e ll b ei ng / W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER LEADER LIFE 35 POSITIVE PARENTING Top T ip s For managing screen time

IT ’S the middle of the school holidays, and the lazy days are giving us a chance to rest and restore ourselves both physically and emotionally. With all that down time, however, children can get lost in screens for hours on end. Below are some tips for setting limits and balancing screen time with other fun a c t iv i t i e s .

1. Set Clear Limits. While normal routines will be relaxed over the holidays, it is still a good idea to talk to your child and agree reasonable amounts of screen time. Whole days devoted to screens will ultimately leave them grumpy and unsettled.

2. Get stuck in to those Christmas books (or get to the library!). The holiday period is a great time to read more to small children and to e n co u ra ge older c h i l d re n to get e n g ro ss e d in a favo u r i t e series of books. Holiday Changing how we think takes practice. Research tells us that a new habit takes between 21 and 60 days to really become a regular part of our lives stories usually go down well. If you are going to relax bed time, let them stay up late reading as a treat rather than on the phone or tablet. Welcome 2020 as a 3. Make sure they stay connected with friends in real life. Instead of constantly messaging friends on social ‘good enough’p a r e n t media, support your children to spend time with their N OW that Christmas is over worry about your child, twinned children that mistakes are ok. It lets Saturday morning you could all friends over the holidays. thoughts have turned to new year's with the anxiety about whether them see that perfection is a fallacy decide on the ‘m e n u’ for the week, Plan a special party at your resolutions. While pledges around yo u’re doing a good job. Will that and that doing your best – b ei n g which includes one favourite meal house with your child or healthier eating, starting savings time I really lost my cool be etched good enough –is what matters. for each one of you. Your children offer to drop older children accounts and getting more on to my son’s memory forever? Am Changing how we think takes feel included and heard, and you and their friends to a special organised seem to top the polls, the I setting the right example for my practice. Research tells us that a d o n’t have to give so much head a c t iv i t y. energy behind them often teenage daughter around diet and new habit takes between 21 and 60 space to the age old ‘what will I do dwindles as the dark days of body image? Will my children days to really become a regular part for dinner’ d i l e m m a? 4. Get outside. January come and go. always remember that I forgot to of our lives. Start small. You might Let 2020 be the year where you We might all be There are some new habits that buy Christmas pyjamas for the Toy want to spend some more quality accept and congratulate yourself fantasising about long duvet are a lot easier to maintain than Show? As parents, we always seem time with your child, for example, for being a good enough parent… days where we don’t have to enthusiasm for your new gym to find a stick to beat ourselves so this would involve a change to because good enough is exactly be anywhere, but more than membership –habits that involve with! What we really need to focus both of your routines. Maybe you what your child needs. a day or so of this will start your mind set. Think about who on, however, is what we are good at. could start to take a walk together This article was contributed to wear on even the laziest you are as a parent/care giver and We need to bear in mind that fact two evenings a week after dinner by a member of Parenting soul. Build in some outside maybe start to think about little that the perfect parent is a myth. and let it just become a part of your Limerick. Parenting Limerick is time and exercise every day. tweaks that you could make that Every parent does wonderful things weekly routine from January a network of parenting and Encourage your child to would result in a happier and more for and with their children, and onwards. Find yourself family support organisations. head out for a confident you. every parent drops the ball from overwhelmed with weekly meal For more information on this neighbourhood soccer game There are two major areas of time to time. Not only does that planning and shopping? You could and other topics go to or go to the forest for a worry in parenthood; the constant make us human but it models to our include the whole family. On w w w. l o ve p a re n ti n g . ie. family hike. THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 36 LEADER LIFE SUDOKU DOUBLE CROSSWORD CODEWORD Codeword is thecrosswordpuzzle withnoclues. The number CrypticClues: in eachsquarecorresponds to aletter. Work outthe wordsin Across Down thegridusing theletters provided. Fill in these known letters first, then use skilland judgementtoworkout theothers. 1. Theyprovide 2. Is in good time A thespirit of butnearlyloses B apoint (5) C progress (6,5) D 3. Type of 9. Chided a E building F debater, well-known in G perhaps (7) architectural H I 10. Manyrows circles?(7) J Volume of K of birds(5) 4. business L 11. Fittingly M transactions (6) N test (3,2) 5. Pawnbroker, O 12. Getting level? relatively P speaking (5) Q (7) R 6. My word!(7) 13. Disturbance S 7. Yetitmight be QuickClues: T produced by WORDWHEEL something in U Across Down V Youhave10mins to find as manywords as possible avery loud concrete (8,3) 1. To be expected (11) 2. Mature (5) 12345678910111213 W using thelettersinthe wheel. Each must use the fish(6) 8. An unfair X hubletter andatleast 3others. Letters maybeused 9. Momentum(7) 3. Slander (7) A D comparison Y only once.You cannot use plurals, foreign wordsor 15. Probably 10. Frequently (5) 4. Of theuniverse (6) 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 (2,4,2,3) Z proper nouns. Thereisatleast one 9-letter word to promising (6) 11. Hair dye(5) 5. Haughty(5) be found. 14. Afirmly 12. Hell (7) 6. Word forword(7) 18. One of rank, 7. In disorder (11) established 13. Empty (6) LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS perhaps (7) 8. Without emotion DOUBLE CROSSWORD: SUDOKU: sports 15. Climbed (6) (2,4,5) Cryptic: Across: 1Demotion; 5 AI 20. Colours paving meeting?(7) Sped;9Harp;10Striking; 11 Queen; 18. Prolonged (7) 14. Restrict(7) 16. Swarms 12 In state; 13 Senselessness; stones (5) 20. Urge (5) 16. Made cold (7) 18Outright; 19 Meet; 20 Faction; E D over nests if 22. Heather (5) Revolve(6) 21 Denim; 22 Rude;23Remissly. 22. Theway to 17. Down: 2Erasure;3Oppress; disturbed (7) 23. Briskly (7) B defeatthe 19. Vagrant(5) 4Outside chance;6Private; 17. Small ruler 24. Brilliant(11) 21. Heathen(5) 7Degrees; 8Misses; 13 Scoffer; N L East (5) comes from 14 Noticed;15Elicit;16Numbers; To hear anycrosswordsolutionorthe full 17 Special. 23. Across in Italy Borneo (6) EF solutions call 0905 7894251 .Calls cost80p CODEWORD: 19. Split caused Quick: Across: 1Riff-raff; 5Acid; shows where per minute plus your networkaccess charge. 9Disc; 10 Accident; 11 Silly; 1=I, 2=X,3=G,4=D,5=J, when a SP: Spoke, 0333 2023390. 12 Talents; 13 Playuponwords; 6=P, 7=N,8=T,9=F,10=A, acomposer is 18 Interest;19Thin; 20 Bondage; 11=R,12=Y,13=B, 14=S, Howyou rate: hundred 15=Z, 16=E, 17=M, 18=C, 15 words, average; 20 words, good; buried (7) Forfourextra letter codeword clues, call 21 Solid; 22 Elan; 23 Astonish. deserted(5) Down: 2Initial; 3Faculty; 4 19=Q, 20=W,21=V,22=H, 25 words, very good;30ormore, 0901293 5251 .Calls cost £1 plus your network 23=U,24=K, 25=O,26=L. 24. Agambler’s 21. Positional Facetiousness;6Cleaner; 7Detests; excellent. accesscharge. SP:Spoke, 0333 2023390. 8Pillow; 13 Pliable;14Antenna; WORD WHEEL: faux pas? (7,4) defence(5) 15 Uproar; 16 Outworn; 17 Deities. HYPNOTIST. CLOCKWORD KAKURO SUDOKU

The solutions from 1to12are all six-letter wordsending Fill in thewhite withthe letter Ninthe centre. Moving clockwise from 1, squares withthe 9 3 5 theletters in theouter circle will spell outthe name of a numbers 1to9. 32 11 10 13 33 US actress. 17 15 7 4 3 Each horizontal 14 18 12 block of squares 6 5 12 must addup 25 13 11 1 to thenumber 14 2 1 7 in theshaded 15 10 16 squaretoits left, 12 1 4 8 5 10 2 and each vertical 4 8 7 block must 9 6 3 adduptothe 3 24 4 number in the 13 18 7 1 9 N 3 shaded square 13 aboveit. 31 2 8 5 No number may 22 6 4 9 3 8 4 be used more 7 6 than once in any 23 13 23 one block. 22 7 7 5 14 LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS 6 8 14 10 6 7 CLOCKWORD: SUDOKU: 1Hazard, 2Extend, 3Nursed, 1. Young cat 7. Flag 29 11 2. Cricket side 4Rotund, 5Yelled, 6Wicked, 3 8 7 5 1 2 6 4 9 8. Foot complaint 9 4 6 7 8 3 5 1 2 3. Wound 7Impend, 8Needed, 9Kicked, 9. Area 12 9 10 Lizard, 11 Exited, 12 Reward. 5 2 1 4 9 6 7 3 8 4. Soothing 4 3 8 961275 preparation 10.Choice CELEBRITY:Henry Winkler. 7 1 2 835964 5. Farmer 11. Pillar 6 95274183 6. Plant 12. Asian garment 863159427 SPLIT DECISION NINER: 279648351 MARIGOLDS. 154327896 Cross outone of thetwo letters S A D H O NINER in eachdivided squaretoreveal SPLIT DECISION: V I T E S KAKURO: acompletedcrossword grid. S C R U B Each number from 1to9represents adifferentletter. O L A Solvethe cluesand insertthe letters in theappropriate 49 26 I O L squares to discoverawordwhich uses all nine letters. W R X 27589153 31 42 49 Z E B R A 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 D O I P E 73 97 38 568 E I D T R O V S 21 1345 E E F 71 79 68 S I N C E THE CLUES: 45639 U L I 83142 3684125 givessweet food; 85 8412 793628 givesseafood; D A L N S 69 75 3426 givesfattyfood. M O R L Y W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER W W W. L I M E R I C K L E A D E R . I E FOR ALL YOUR LOCAL NEWS LEADER LIFE 37 HEALTHY LIVING EVA HILL HAMILTON CONTACT EVA Facebook: @evahillnutrition Web: www.evahillnutrition.com Email: [email protected]

way too much. But thanks to you would do if you had an my new year's resolution, hour or an afternoon to New year’s this holiday season was a yourself. Write a list of things breeze! I finished all my that fill you up and decide to tasks, hosted several dinners do one thing a week –eve n and had plenty of energy for better, one thing a day. It’s re s o l u t i o n : everyone. What a difference! not decadent; it’s vital to your Why? I refused to work more sanity and your health! than my fair share, insisted I can nearly hear you say – on having weekends and yes that sounds lovely but I time off. I’ve prioritised have no time…Well, people self care sleep; I have been going to have time for what they make bed earlier, wearing earplugs time for. It is a conscious and an eye mask every night, decision. Take a look at HE dawn of a new year above and your elderly and I’ll tell you that the where you might waste time means an attempt for parents at the same time? greatly increased quality and –ask for help and utilize it lifestyle changes for T You don’t get enough rest, quantity of my sleep has had when offered. m a ny. d o n’t exercise or eat well – a big impact on my ability to Write ME TIME into the I see clients with the same tired yet cannot get a function better in all of my calendar and stick to it. problem; they work around refreshing sleep? ro l e s . Exercise does not have to the clock all year and by the Do you have trouble On top of these basics, take hours either; fifteen time of Christmas season saying no; afraid of who’s Taking some time for yourself is one of the easiest new what can you do to fill minutes of high intensity they are exhausted and by going to make things ye a r ’s resolutions to make in 2020 yourself up? That depends interval training from the January they are riddled happen? You may often resist on what brings you joy. web will do plenty, especially with viruses and flare ups of taking care of yourself first activities. Caring for others putting your own oxygen Everyone is different. For me, in the morning –followed by their chronic conditions. because you think it’s and ourselves are not mask on first, so you can in getting out on a hiking trail, a cold rinse and you’ll be Does this sound familiar? “s e l f i s h ”. But prioritising mutually exclusive. It is not fact be better able to help soaking in a hot bath, losing ready to take on the world. Are you a professional, a your wellbeing actually gives nice to have –it is essential! oth e r s? myself in a good book, or Eat well and mind yourself – mother, a caregiver, a nurse? you more energy for your Do you remember how the I know, I have been there; connecting with friends all your loved ones will benefit Maybe taking care of all the caregiver roles and other flight attendant advises the last few years I took on nourish me. Imagine what from you more.

YOUDON’T HAVE TO GO FAST ! YOUJUST HAVE TO GO! Sunday May 3RD2020

WWW.GREATLIMERICKRUN.COM THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 38 LEADER LIFE STYLE&FASHION CELIA HOLMAN LEE CONTACT CELIA Facebook: celiaholmanlee Web: www.holmanlee.ie Email: [email protected] Bridal bliss kicks off a new year

HE traditional rule book when it comes to what to wear if you are one of the wedding party is long gone. The first rule is, thTere are no rules - only that the outfit suits your personality, figure and style. The day of the stand-alone dress is almost gone, especially at this time of year. Wraps, jackets or coats are now an essential part of an outfit. Headpieces and hats are important to complete a look but just as important are shoes, jewellery and bags. If you are still looking for that fabulous dress one of my favourites is the fitted silhouette and Bardot neckline. It’s a classic, timeless elegant look. Another of my favourites is the scalloped sweetheart neckline. It is sure to be a talking point at any wedding with a cascading tulle skirt with thin horsehair trim. The wedding day is also a big day for mother of the bride/groom too. But, again, remember you are free to go as subtle or as bold as you c h o o s e. Bridesmaids work hard and are key to the big day so it is only right that they get to look fabulous too. In relation to the groom, best man etc, again it’s about suiting their personality. They can opt for the latest suiting styles or the more traditional looks. For those in search of some inspiration then the Mid-West Bridal Exhibition at UL Sports Arena on Saturday, January 11 and Sunday, January 12 is a must! Doors open at 12 noon each day. We look forward to seeing you all there! Ciara O'Halloran wows in a design from Virginia's Bridal at the launch of the Mid-West Brdial Exhibition

Oral Shiel models astunning princess-style dress from Claudia Daly wears a beautiful fishtail dress from The Attic at the launch Here's a stylish ensemble from Marion Murphy-Cooney Lilac Rose of the Mid-West Bridal Exhibition which would be ideal for mother-of-the bride or groom W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER LEADER LIFE 39 CELIA SPOTTED Looking good out and about in Limerick

Name: Emma Austin O cc u p a t i o n : Social Care student From: Shannon

EMMA SAYS:

Top: My top is from Zara and was at such a good price. The mesh sleeves are really in at the moment so I’ve been getting great wear out of it.

Shorts: I bought my shorts in Zara even though they we re n ’t my size, I just co u l d n’t leave them behind. I took them to Zip Yard alterations and they tailored them for me so they’d be the perfect fit. I love these because you can also dress them up with heels or if you wanted to go for a more casual look flat boots would be lovely with them too.

Shoes: My boots are from PrettyLittleThing, an online shop. These are known as sock boots and I find them so comfortable as the heel i s n’t too high. These boots can be worn dressed up or WINTER SALE -20% OFF dressed down and go with almost everything in my at Trinity City Hotel wardrobe from dresses and skirts to jeans. -Sisterhotel to LimerickStrandHotel - located in theheart of Dublin City Book by January 5th T&C’s Apply

Within walking distanceto: TrinityCollege, Grafton Street, Temple Bar, The 3Arena and Bord Gais Energy Theatre

Book NowT:01648 1000 [email protected] Look out for Celia’s ‘My Week’ column TrinityCityHotel, Pearse Street, Dublin 2 in the Limerick Leader every Thursday www.trinitycityhotel.com THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 40 LEADER LIFE MANABOUTTOWN PATRICK McLOUGHNEY CONTACT PATRICK Email: [email protected] Twitter: @iammcloughney Instagram: iammcloughney My 2019 in review A P PY New Year While I was on board with the for me in May. I got the opportunity everyone! For my first concept I was dreading the shoot as to shoot for the GANT website column of 2020, I've I was not in any kind of shape to be which was an amazing privilege. decided to take a look doing a fitness shoot. We shot the GANT are one of the biggest fashion back at my 2019. I pictures in Go Gym and I hated brands in the world and this was a Hwant to do this for a couple of posing as I was nearly 100 kg at the huge boost to my confidence. I also rea s o n s . time. Seeing these photos pushed travelled to Kilkenny to judge the Over the years it's been me to start working with Tom Miss Kilkenny and Miss Carlow suggested to me several times that Ochocki from Perfect Line pageants and to Thurles to judge my weekly column should be more Coaching which was one of the best Miss Tipperary. It was shortly after of a social diary than the current decisions I made all year so I guess this that I was approached by the format of tackling a different topic it's an example of turning a organisers of Miss Ireland about in the main article every week. I've negative into a positive. I'd done running the Miss Limerick and always resisted this because –A. several shoots for Littlewoods Miss Clare pageants going forward, My life isn't that exciting and B. It's before this and several more since an opportunity I felt was too good to already being done by others. but this is the only one I'm not turn down. I also had the chance to When I look back on 2019 however, proud of but I can look back at it as work with and promote two and more specifically when I look a starting point as things did get incredible charity initiatives – back at where I was and how I was b ette r. Darkness Into Light and The Green feeling at the beginning of the year, February brought my biggest Ribbon Campaign. Patrick with his most stylish man award at the Hi Style Awards I do think it's worth acknowledging social media collaboration to date In June I was invited to chat some of the things that I have with the mobile phone company fashion and dating with Jenny Ciara O'Halloran, Emma Austin Blog Awards but alas, I didn't bring accomplished in the last year. Huawei. I'd worked with big brands Greene on 2FM. This was one of the and Christina Alcazar Deverell. home gold. I did win best dressed at Please believe me when I tell you like Barker Shoes, Happy Socks, highlights of my year and I'm so In August I modelled for the the RSVP event in Dublin so I didn't that this is by no means a Jack and Jones and Selected thankful to have been given this Holman Lee Agency at the Rose of leave October completely humblebrag. In January I wrote Homme before this but this was by opportunity and to Jenny for Tralee Fashion Show in front of e m pty- h a n d e d . articles like How To Be A Better You far my biggest partnership to date. I making it so easy and making me so thousands in the Dome in Tralee. I In November I shot some online In 2019, Healthy Eating Tips For got to keep the phone too, which relaxed while I was on the air. June also got to do another sportswear content for Selected, filmed a pilot 2019, and How To Get Rid Of A Beer was nice. also saw me named an ambassador shoot for Littlewoods. This time I for a web series called Open For Gut. These were written as much In March I did some online for the Pig N Porter festival, the was a lot more prepared thanks to Business and shot promotional for me as they were for you the content for Quigleys with my good highlight of the Limerick Summer Tom and it was a nice measuring material for the Crescent Shopping reader. Fresh off the first friend Esme Wallace. I love these social calendar. I got to do a second stick to use to see how far I'd come Centre. I rounded the year out by Christmas with no surviving shots and I've re-used them for shoot for the GANT website in since August. I also got to do a TV being crowned Ireland's most parents, I was not in a good place every dating related article that I've Killaloe with the incredibly spot for Virgin Media with the stylish man at the Hi Style Awards. emotionally or –as you can tell written since. Esme and I did a talented Paudie Bourke. lovely Nadine Reid on the sadly now I do want to make it very clear from the beer gut article – wedding shoot for Ballykealy In July I danced down the defunct Xposé show. that the aforementioned events are physically and struggling with my House in Carlow in November so runway with Celia Holman Lee at At the Miss Ireland Final in the highlights of my year and it is mental health. On the advice of my there was a happy ending to our the Oxendales Ireland A/W season September our amazing Miss Clare worth noting that there were also girlfriend at that time, I wrote these pretend social media love story. launch. I also launched the Emma Austin finished first runner plenty of dark times –the breakup I articles as well as writing down my April brought more shoots for Children's Grief Centre Pro-Am up, our stunning Miss Limerick mentioned, struggling with grief goals for the year ahead. While Littlewoods, Selected and Jack and Qualifier at Adare Manor with North Christina Alcazar Deverell and feelings of depression and we're not together anymore, I do Jones as well as a team-up with the Limerick Hurler Darragh finished second runner up and our trying to get my confidence back to owe her a thank you as she gave me Irish Independent's online O'Donovan and fulfilled my duties inspirational Miss Limerick Ciara name but a few. I also want to make the push that I needed to lift myself blogging portal Creators.ie. I've as an ambassador for the highly O'Halloran finished in the top eight clear that I didn't write this in an out of my rut. I won't share my 2019 been working with Creators ever successful Pig N Porter festival. The and won Miss Sporting. While I had attempt to show the world how goals as they're very personal but since and I'm very proud to be part undoubted highlight of July was the shoots and other events in great I think I am. I wrote this to with the exception of one or two of their team of contributors. I also Miss Limerick and Miss Clare event September, they pale in show you that it's possible to that were made impossible by hosted the men's segment at Sinead held in Bar 101. comparison to the achievements of bounce back. It may sound like a changing life circumstances, I'm O'Brien's workshop in Athlone. I've This was my first attempt at these three amazing women. cliché but it's in the darkest nights happy to report that I achieved the done everything from singing to organising an event so I relied In October I travelled to that you see the stars. Don't lose majority of the goals I set for 2019. trying on Spanx to being a blind heavily on the expertise of my Kilkenny for a fashion show hosted faith and don't give up because My first big modelling date at Sinead's shows. They're co-organiser James Hayes and our by Sonya Lennon in aid of Down there's a road going down the other assignment of 2019 was a shoot for always great fun and I never know pageant guru Esme Wallace. We Syndrome Ireland. I was also side of every hill. Be patient, believe Littlewoods Ireland in fitness gear what to expect. pulled it off on the night and shortlisted for the Best Male in yourself and set some achievable to promote a healthy lifestyle. Things really started to get busy crowned three amazing winners in Influencer of 2019 at the Beauty goals. Have a wonderful 2020 !

My highlight of the summer was the Miss Limerick and Miss Chatting with Jenny Greene on 2FM in June Clare event Photoshoot for Gant in Killaloe W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER LEADER LIFE 41

Jake Farrell, Dillon Lynch, Morgan Kavanagh and Kristin Harris, Caherconlish, all set for some skating at the ice rink LIMERICK ON ICE AT ARTHUR’S QUAY PARK Pictures: BRENDAN GLEESON

The crowds enjoying the ice rink over the holidays Nessa, Rhona and Noaise Kelly, Nenagh, enjoying the ice rink

Danielle Bynres and Padraig Bulter, Tipperary Town Some skaters enjoying the fun at the ice rink

Seanie Hayes and Aisling Dillon, Parteen, enjoying the ice Rebecca and Keeley Reynolds, Hyde Road rink Carmen Canales, Leah Galmego, Mira Golz and Carla Rodes THE LEADER www.limerickleader.ie WEDNESDAY,JANUARY1,2020 42 LEADERLIFE LOUISELOVES LOUISECANTILLON CONTACTLOUISE Facebook: @LaoisDeCantalun Email: louise.cantillon@spinsouthwest Instagram: louise_cantillon

Rogha na Seachtaine Ones to watch in 2020 T'Sthattime of year again Noel Gallagher’s High-Flying Birds, when we sit down together at Courteeners and DMAs,manyofthe Spin SouthWestHQand shows on theirrecentheadlinetour introduceyou to some across Ireland, UK and Europe in incredible artists to keep on Septemberweresold out. yoIur radar for2020! Aimée LYRA Atrained dancer, and natural Aperfect blend of dark vocalist, Aimée has navigated the electronicpop,LYRA’screativity bumpypop path to emerge as a manifests itself in songs, stories and confidentsongwriter,and an artist art. whois–and sounds-completely in Her love of vocal talentssuchas control of her creative vision. TO DO: Kate Bush, LykkeLi and Batfor Inspired musically by 90s icons such NewYear’s Lashes is obvious: part vintage, part as Christina Aguilera, and Britney contemporary,she exudes asense of Spears, Aimée grew up in Dublin Resolution being free from theconstraints of listening-diligently-to everyvocal time andera.LYRA’sRupert run, every empoweringlyricand Howeverbig or small, set Christie(Kate Bush, Coldplay, pure pop melody that Aguilera, yourself agoal for2020! Aurora)produceddebut EP Spears and theirpeers were Kick off the NewYear on a ‘W.I.L.D’ wasself-released to critical releasing. positive note and takeon acclaim and has over amillion Embracing theearly 90s the roaring 20s with a streams on Spotify. production styleofMax Martin but game plan! ThatEPled to sold-out shows in coupling this withaloveofcurrent Ireland and London, festivaldates at artists suchasAriana Grande, The GreatEscape,MusicCork, CharliePuthand Demi Lovato, Latitudeand Electric Picnic. Aimée beganworking on her currentmaterial in early2018. Inhaler RobertKeating,Elijah Hewson JC Stewart and RyanMcMahon came together Recently named as one of at schoolinDublin,later to be joined MTV’s Ones To Watchfor 2020,JC by Josh Jenkinson. already has fans fallingunderhis While theirfriends sampled spell. morecontemporary pop flavours, His previous single PickUp TO LISTEN: they metinart class as 13-year-olds Your Phone receivedsupport and soon initiatedasortofsecret across Irish radio. He is setto HIT 30 –Best of societythattook in The Stone Roses, release his debutEPThe Wrong JoyDivision, The Strokes, Depeche Ones on January 10. the Decade Mode,Interpol, Kings Of Leon, The JC has already earned himself Join me on Spin South West Cureand more, acrash course in some famous fans suchasLewis todayasIlook back at rhythmicswagger,brooding Capaldi and Niall Horan, having some of the biggest hits anthems and indie-rockriffs. co-written Capaldi’s hotsong from the last decade! Some The next logical step forthe Hollywood plus acharismatic classics in the mix plus teenagers wastogoround each stagepresence as evidencedbyhis some one hit wondersI other’s houses and playcover headline tournextyearincluding a knowyou’veforgotten! versions of theirfavouritesongs. date at Dublin’s The Academyon Tune in from 9am! After that,itwas writing theirown. May27and it is clear JC Stewartis Inhaler wasinevitable. Atrained dancer,and natural vocalist, Aimée has navigated the bumpy poised to makeamajor Following supportslots with pop path to emerge as aconfident songwriter breakthroughthis year. TO SEE: Qween @Dolans

Due to demand asecond night has nowbeen added! Thank You! Qween’s live two-hour production of Queen’s From all theteamatSpin greatest hits is not to be SouthWest,amassive missed! Catch the ultimate THANK YOUfor your tribute live at Dolans supportthroughout 2019! Warehousetonight! More We hadawonderful year [email protected]. withsomanyhighlights. We arelooking forwardto averybusy and exciting 2020 and we can’t wait for youtojoininonthe fun! Staytuned forexciting gig announcements and specialpartnershipsthis year @spinsouthwest.com W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER LEADER LIFE 43

Tom Russell took this bird's eye view of the LIT Gaelic Grounds with the help of a drone R e a d e rs P i c t u re s WE LOVE TO RECEIVE PHOTOGRAPHS FROM OUR READERS, SO IF YOU’D LIKE TO FEATURE ON THIS PAGE, EMAIL YOUR SNAPS TO [email protected] WITH READERS’

Claire Waters took this snap on a frosty eve n i n g PICTURES IN THE SUBJECT LINE

The river path in Plassey taken by Denis Hickey A beautiful sunny morning taken in Plassey by Denis Hickey THE LEADER www.limerickleader.ie WEDNESDAY,JANUARY1,2020 44 LEADERLIFE I❤LIMERICK RICHARDLYNCH FOLLOW RICHARD Facebook: RichardLynch Web: www.richardknows.com Twitter: @richanthon Email: [email protected] Alook back at 2019 HATayear! Hoping 2020 is just as special and wishing you all thegreatest success and haWppiness forthe coming year.Hereisalook backat some memorable moments from my past year:

All-Ireland Hurling Champions named Limerick Persons of the Year In February,the All-IrelandLimerickSenior Hurling champions were named LimerickPersons of theYear2018 forbringing theLiamMacCarthyCup back to theTreatyCityand County forthe first time in 45 years. Nearly100,000 greetedthe victoriousteam at theirhomecoming, while thousands morecontinued to celebrateasthe players accompanied thecup on its travels to allcorners of the county.Atthe gala eventin theClayton Hotel, Cervical Cancer campaigner Vicky Phelan wasalso honoured withaSpecial Achievement Award. Details of anew Limerick Hall of Fame were announced at thegala Richard, PROofLimerick Pride pictured at the parade with ClaireCulhane, his husband Hugo,Lisa Daly, Limerick Pride Chairperson and Limerick drag Picture: Dolf Patijn/ilovelimerick ceremony, withthe late sensation Celine Cranberries lead singer friend. The closing date to importance of why Dolores O’Riordan being the submit afilmfor this year’s empowermentisso first inductee. To see avideo competition is January 24. important in both men and of theday go to See women. ilovelimerick.com now! www.freshfilmfestival.net. Guest speakers included ProfessorDesmond Fitzgerald, Presidentofthe Ireland’s YoungFilmmaker Team Limerick Clean-up UniversityofLimerickand of the Year Awards celebrates 5years! In March, Ireland’s Young In April on Good Friday,a Mary Harney,Chancellorof Filmmaker of theYear2019 record-breaking 21,000 UL. Eighttransition and announced its Senior and volunteerstook part in Team fifth-yearstudents from Junior winners at theFresh Limerick Clean-Up5, schoolsacross theMid West International Film Festivalat Ireland’s largest one-day eachgavefive-minute theOdeoninCastletroy. tidy-up.Across hundreds of presentations on thetopics Students from Clarewho locations around Limerick of empowermentand were part of theSparksFilm cityand county,teams of equality. Lovedthe eventand Group took homethe title of schoolchildren, businesses, hope it comes backfor 2020! Ireland’s Young Junior residential groups, Tidy Richardpictured with Jayne Foley, founder of Fresh Film Festival, second placefinalist Cal Filmmaker of theYear2019 Towns and sports clubscame Arnold O’Driscoll, 16,fromDublin, winner of Ireland'sYoung Filmmaker of the Year 2019 Sean The Lavery and Osborne fortheir shortfilm together to give their Treacy,14, from Wicklowand thirdplacefinalist Milosh Hughes, 18, from Malahide, Dublin Exhibition ‘CAT-astrophe’, in whicha community aspring clean with comedian PatShortt PICTURE: ZOECONWAY /ILOVELIMERICK In May, Ishot strangecat is found and and makeLimerick the promotional photoswith weirdthingsbegin to tidiest and cleanest place in of thevictoriousAll-Ireland stresses the importanceof The conference was none other than Celia happen. Fourteen-year-old thecountry.Celebrating the Limerick hurling team, Gender Equality organised and presentedby Holman Lee to promote a Sean TracyfromAshford in milestone year forthe Munster rugbylegends, In April, at theUniversity Dr Mary Ryan, Consultant newexhibition Lavery and Wicklowtookhomethe title much-lovedcommunity communityand residential ConcertHall, The Midwest Endocrinologist, Bon Osborne:ObservingLife, of Ireland’s Young Senior event, sponsorJPMcManus groups, businesses,charities Empowermentand Equality Secours at Barrington’s that openedatthe Hunt Filmmaker of theYear2019 and ambassador Paul and localwell-knownfaces. Conference took place to Limerick and Senior Museum in June and forhis shortfilm‘Rue’,a O’Connell led thearmyof Watchavideo of theday on empower, educateand Lecturer at Graduate Entry continuedthroughout the story aboutaboy whoregrets volunteers, whocame from ilovelimerick.com now. encouragemen and women Medical School (GEMS), summer.Irish artists, Sir his last wordstohis best every towninLimerick and both young and old to take UniversityofLimerick.Mary John Lavery and Walter this year featuredmembers MEECConference2019 better careofthemselves. educated theaudience on the Frederick Osborne were W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER LEADER LIFE 45 both born in the mid-nineteenth century and these renowned artists lived parallel lives as Irish painters who travelled overseas to develop their artistic talent. The exhibition placed the two artists side by side, without other artists for the first time and it was a huge big deal for the Hunt Museum. Celia and I were thrilled to take part in promoting such an historic exhibition. To see a video go to ilovelimerick.com now!

#CALLITOUT Campaign calls out Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia In June, the University of Limerick hosted an event for the Call it Out campaign, which is a joint initiative of Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI) and The Hate and Hostility Research Group at UL. The initiative aimed to highlight and address the harm caused by homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia in Ireland. Despite many positive changes in regards to LGBT+ rights and acceptance, UL found that the Irish underestimate the on-going problems. At the launch, I Richard pictured with nutritional therapist Olivia Beck, fitness expert Leanne Moore, style queen Celia Holman Lee, Dr Mary Ryan, consultant endocrinologist spoke about my own Bon Secours Hospital, Aoibhinn Garrihy, actress and founder of BEO, Mary Harney, chancellor of the University of Limerick, hockey player Sinead Loughra n experiences of homophobia and Una Burns, head of policy and communications, Novas PICTURE: ZOE CONWAY /ILOVELIMERICK in my younger years and how that has affected me throughout my life. I felt so honoured to be asked to be part of such an important campaign. See w w w.c a l l i tout . ie.

Limerick shines for biggest Pride Parade ever! In July, Limerick’s biggest Pride parade ever took place as thousands of people of all ages lined the streets for L i m e r ic k ’s most splendid Richard celebrating the 5th birthday of TLC with Richard Lynch pictured with members of Limerick Richard pictured at Leanne's wedding with his and colourful day founders JP McManus, Paul O'Connell and Helen Against Pollution at the March for Our Lives husband Hugo, Claire Culhane, Dave and Leanne, celebrating lesbian, gay O'Donnell PICTURE: CONOR OWENS/ILOVELIMERICK protest PICTURE: DOLF PATIN/ILOVELIMERICK Celia Holman Lee, Ger Lee and Sinead O'Brien bisexual and transgender culture. People travelled as far as the USA to celebrate this year's Festival which marked 50 anniversary the Stonewall Riots in New York and the birth of the LGBT Pride movement. The annual parade celebrated its 13th year with an estimated 3,000 people and several corporate, voluntary and political organisations taking part. It was my 12th year involved in Richard at the launch of the Call IT Out campaign Richard with John Kiely, Limerick senior hurling the organisation of the with Stephen O'Hare, Teni, Piotr Godzisz, Lambda manager, and retired Limerick senior hurler Paul Festival and it just seems to Richard and Celia promoting the Lavery and Warsaw, Ellen Murray, Teni, Dr Jennifer B row n PICTURE: CONOR OWENS/ILOVELIMERICK be getting bigger and better Osborne Exhibition PICTURE: DON MOLONEY Schweppe, HHRG UL, and Dr Amanda Haynes, UL every year. To say I am proud is an understatement! honoured to be her In August I started Valerie tells me, “I cannot Limerick citizens, both young and old, lined the Looking forward to next bridesman and the whole working with the amazing thank the people of Limerick businesses and politicians streets with signs and yea r ’s Festival already! day was picture perfect. It Deirdre MacMahon on the enough for all they did for my took to the streets, in protest banners to show their anger Watch a video of the day on was so much fun meeting all L e o n’s Lifeline campaign son. The outpouring of love of the Environmental at the EPA for granting Irish i l ove l i m e r ic k . c o m . of David’s Dublin crew and with the aim of raising was tremendous and Protection Agency’s (EPA) Cement permission to ditch also hanging with the €70,000 to send 22-year-old exemplified the best of decision to allow Irish fossil fuels in exchange for Leanne and David’s Wedding Limerick gang including Leon O'Connor to Russia to Limerick and I am forever Cement to burn 90,000 burning tyres and waste. In July, my baby Leanne Celia Holman Lee and Sinead receive treatment for indebted to all who donated tonnes of waste in Mungret. Even with the rain pouring Moore got married to David O’Brien. Leanne and David, I Multiple Sclerosis. to the cause.” You can see a The protest was organised by down, the turnout was Behan, the love of her life in could not be happier for both The campaign was a huge video about Leon on Limerick Against Pollution amazing and showed the Marbella and it was the of you and love you lots. success and Leon received i l ove l i m e r ic k . c o m . (LAP), a group of concerned passion of the Limerick wedding of the century! I had Congrats xxx his treatment this past residents who live near the people shining through a an absolute ball and my legs November and I am thrilled Limerick shows out to Mungret plant. desperate situation. To see a were sore afterwards from Leon's Lifeline - A Young to report that he is doing ‘March for Our Lives’ There was not a clear path video of the day go to all the dancing. I was M a n’s Only Chance really well. Leon’s mother In October, thousands of in sight as Limerick natives, ilovelimerick.com now. 46 THE LEADER www.limerickleader.ie WEDNESDAY,JANUARY1,2020 Email: [email protected] Web: www.limerickleader.ie Call: 061 214531/545/500 Fax: 061 401422 Limerick Leader, 54 O’Connell Street, Limerick Deadlines: Classified Display &Lineage Monday2:00pm Family Announcements& Bereavements Monday2:00pm Motoring/ Property/Jobs Email Us: Monday2:00pm Paybycredit /debit Private Advertising: [email protected] Jobs: [email protected] FamilyAnnouncements: [email protected] cardorcash. All major credit/debit ClassifAcomplete version of our Terms &Ciedsonditions can be found online at www.limerickleader.ie cards accepted.

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LARGE QUANTITIES of TopQuality Hay, Haylageand Silage BREAKING forsale. Adare area. Deliveredif WHY ADVERTISE IN required. 087 NEWS 6862977 Contact 061214500 YOUR LOCAL NEWSPAPER? SITUATIONS VACANT LeThe aderwww.limerickleader.ie BARBER -FULL-TIME position in Clarina www.limerickleader.ie (087) 6785997 73% OF OUR READERS SHOP FOR FURNITURE AND HOMEWARE IN THEIRLOCAL TOWN

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DATASOURCE:Local Ireland/Mediaforce Ireland Shopping Survey December2016.*READ/JNRS MillardBrown 2016 W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER 47 FAMILYANNOUNCEMENTS IN MEMORIAM IN MEMORIAM IN MEMORIAM IN MEMORIAM IN MEMORIAM Although they say that passing time Can heal so many things It will never heal the heartache And the pain that Christmas brings, Because it brings back memories Of happy times with you Of all the fun and laughs we'd have And things we used to do. And oh to hug you once again = SHEEHAN And wish you all the best (12th Anniversary & 45th Instead of leaving these sad words = MCNAMARA = O'DONNELL Birthday Remembrance) At this your place of rest. = WOODS (Third Anniversary) (42nd Anniversary) In loving memory of John To thank you for the Christmass- (Third Anniversary) In loving memory of In loving memory of a dear "Rambo" Sheehan late of es we shared With love, we remember a Memories Pennywell Rd, Limerick With one another Annette McNamara, late of mother Catherine (Kitty) And to tell you that you meant so precious son, brother and Live 35 Creagh Ave, Kileely, O'Donnell late of 13 St. whose 12th anniversary much uncle Damien Woods, late Limerick who died 6th Munchin's St, St. Mary's occurs on the 23rd And always will dear brother. of San Damiano, January 2017. Mass will be Park, Limerick who died December 2019. Also Just one more greeting for today Glenbrook, who died on Forever remembering John's 45th To place among the rest offered on Saturday 4th on January 1st, 42nd To wish you Happy Birthday January 2nd, 2017. January at 7pm in St. anniversary. Masses Birthday which occurs on John Masses offered Abouquet Lelia's Church. offered. Also remembering the 22nd January 2020. And say you were the best xxx This is for someone wonderful Always smiling, happy and Masses have been offered Always loved and remembered Who is loved as one could be of beautiful at this time our father For you were everything in our content, for John's intentions. from your sister Susan and Loved and respected wherever Joseph O'Donnell, brother- your good friend James, your lives memories, she went; in-law Joseph Slattery, Will those who think of sister Katherine, your sister You meant the world you see To a beautiful life a sudden end, brother-in-law Gerard John today, Joanne and husband Keith, And sometimes life can be sprayedwith a But she died as she lived, A little prayer to Jesus say your sister Marie and partner unkind Costelloe, uncle Thomas When hearts are torn in two everyone's friend. xxx Eoin xxxx million tears, Always loved and never Cuddihy and nephew But nothing could ever compare Joseph O'Donnell. Rest In Deep in our hearts your To the pain of losing you forgotten by your husband memory is kept We're sending a dove to Heaven wishing God Willie, family and relatives in Peace. With a parcel on its wings But all the love you left behind To love and cherish and Forever will live on Shannon. xx The world is full of wonderful never forget Be careful when you open it things, Its full of beautiful things And so until we meet again could have Words are few but thoughts Rest peacefully dear son Just like the sweetest rose Beautiful flowers and butterfly are deep Inside are 12 big kisses Your petals fell too soon wings, Wrapped in 12 big hugs Our son, our sunshine spared you, Memories of you we will Always on our minds, forever But the love you planted in our Thousands of birds weaving always keep To say how much we miss you hearts patterns in flight, And send you all our love. in our hearts from Mam and if just for afew Sadly missed and always Dad xxx Will never cease to bloom Millions of stars decorating the remembered from your father Always loved and remembered May you always walk in sunshine night. Gerard from your nieces Shanon, more years. And God's love around you grow But if we search the whole April, Leah and Ava and We never fail to think of you For the happiness you gave to us world over, one shore to another, We never cease to care The moment that you died John from your nephews James, No one will ever know. We will never find a treasure, as Evan, Tadgh, Thomas, Adam, Oh what we'd give to come From Bernie and the precious as our mother My heart was torn in two home It doesnot take One side filled with heartache Jonathan, Jack and Eoiny O'Donnell's Deeply missed but never xxxxx And see you sitting in your chair With love forgotten your sons Junior, The other died with you. We miss your laugh that sound aspecial day, Pa, David, Seamus, Anthony, I often lie awake at night so dear When the world is fast asleep We would also like to Andrew, daughters Maryrose, remember at this special time Your silly jokes and constant for us to think Catherine, Phyllis, Linda, And take a walk down memory cheer lane of year Jimmy Williams and Ann, daughter-in-law, son-in- Nicky Lyons There's so much in life that's of you, each law, grandchildren, great- With tears upon my cheeks. altered Remembering you is easy John Will those who think of our grandchildren. loved ones today, And so much in life that's new Mass we hear, I do it every day But never in our lifetime But missing you is heartache A little prayer to Jesus say xxx Damien That never goes away. Will there be another you each prayer we = O'GRADY I hold you tightly within my Love from your sister Simone say,is offered (Seasonal Remembrance) heart and niece and goddaughter In memory of our father Stephen And there you will remain Grace xx O'Grady (late J & G Boyds and Until the joyous day arrives up for you. Kidds Restaurant), 10 Emly That we will meet again. You went away so quietly Place, Mary Street, Limerick Always loved and remembered No time to say goodbye died on 2nd January, 1952. His from your heartbroken But brothers cannot be parted We cannot = MOLONEY wife Kathleen (late Cleeves), mother Carmel. Also Precious memories never die (Seventh Anniversary) died 4th February, 1989. remembering my mother Yo ur brother Killian xx bring the old His son Stephen (late Mary, my father Willie, my McMahon's and Coads Shoes), sisters Lilly and Esther, my Precious memories of a dear days back, Treasured memories of died 13th August, 1973. His brother John and my nephews Thosewe grandson Damien On his third Linda Moloney late of daughters Margaret Helen (4 William and David anniversary when we were Sarsfield Ave, Garryowen months) Died 9th September love, To know him was to love him Rest in Peace whose anniversary occurs 1941 and Maura McMahon (late You went away so quietly John Clothing Factory and So as not to cause us pain Sadly missed by his nana all together, on 1st January. R.I.P. O'Donovan's), died 29th June, But you will never be forgotten Breda, uncles, aunts and Masses Offered. 2002. Her husband Brendan In our hearts you still remain cousins x our family (late De Beers), died 10th Your wish today would be no We never You shared in all my ups and February, 2009. fuss chain is broken downs, His grandchildren, Baby Elaine, Just to be remembered by all of lose, You helped me see them Died 27th November 1977 and us. now, but through; grandson baby Michael, Died Always remembered by your You made the bad times better, 19th June 1988. brother Jason, Aoife, nephews memories live By the things you used to say Masses offered. Evan and Tadgh and do. Always fondly remembered but Foralways forever. You were someone I could talk Sadly missed at this time. to, (Inserted by the O'Grady they will be, On whom I could depend; family) You were more than just a wife, You were also my best friend, And so on this your anniversary, LightACandle... Loved, I long to let you know, Acandle to remember, How proud I am that you were may it burn ever so bright mine, As we look to the heavens remembered, Because I loved you so. on this very night. Beyond the stars, our dear treasured Sadly missed by your loving loved ones soars husband Noel, Stephen & Embraced by their Savior on Family, Patrick & Family, heaven’s shores. David & Family and Jessica As the angels protect them and & Family. sing their sweet name Alwaysin Also remembered by Michael We honor their life with the glow and Paddy Ryan of this flame. ourmemory. So we light this candle for our loved ones tonight As asymbol of our love and their eternal life. 48 THE LEADER www.limerickleader.ie WEDNESDAY, JANUARY1,2020

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The best deals Leader on wheels from local garages every week MOTO ADVERTISE IN THIS SECTION:TOTelephone 061-214526 FaRSx 061-401222 Email [email protected] Style and s u b s t a n ce Ford Focus ST: Latest model blends track performance with everyday use

TRISH WHELAN ST-3 with a choice of petrol or diesel www. C a r A n d T r ave l .ie powertrains and hatchback or wagon bodystyles. FO R D Ireland say their Focus model Standard items on the diesel is thebest car they have ever made ST-2 include18-inch alloys with ST but herewe’re dealing with a design, front lower grille, high gloss differentbreed of Focus, developed black; frontand rear parking by Ford Performance. sensors; FordPass Connect; gauges Motorists wholike plenty of integrated in acluster 4.2-inch TFT power in their car when they need it colour screen; partial leather for a blast at weekends, but who also Recaro Performance seats. The want a good family car foreveryday ST-3 (from €43,253) adds 19-inch use, can have the bestof both alloys, painted calipers; fixed full worlds withthe New Ford Focus ST LED headlamps; arear view which blends legitimate track-day camera, full leather Recaro seats; performance and practical and power 4-waydriver/passenger everyday usability. 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Power is from a 2.3-litre The exterior differs from the all-aluminium EcoBoost petrol standardmodel withspecial engine withsix-speed manual or a Selectable drive modes Slippery, Normal, Sport or Track are a first for Focus ST colours to showits strong styling. seven-speed automatic These includeFord Performance transmission (my review car). It is CyclistDetection, arearwide-view Blue and Orange Fury,alongside the most powerful engine ever camera and a Wrong Way Alert. 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Combined fuel ‘Jekyll and Hyde’ yet, able to switch the sporty atmospherewith an consumption is 7.9 L/100kms for from refined tourer to focussed ST-embossed aluminium gear knob the 2.3 litre engine; 4.8 L/100kms performancecar at the push of a and scuff plates, alloy pedals, some for the 2.0-litre version. butto n . metallic and satin silver decorative Selectable drive modes area The entry levelFocus is from elements, and metalgrey stitching first for Focus ST. They are €23,365 (excluding delivery and forthe seats, door inserts and Slippery/Wet, Normal, Sport and related charges), my review car was centre console soft side pads. Trac k . €41,099 includingsome options Fo rd ’ s new C2 platform is I loved driving this car and found like the Performance Pack at enhanced with unique suspension, the six-speed manual gearbox to efficient road-holding and tyres are used. €1,500; Head-Up display (€530); braking and powertrain have a sportierfeel with ashort response while the electric power Driver assist technologies rear wide-view camera (€100). The configurations forthe most shift throw compared with the assisted steering system is way includeActive Park Assist 2with Ford Performance Blue exterior responsive and agile Focus ST standard new Focus. It also faster than that in the standard Park-OutAssist, Adaptive Cruise paint is another €1,500. These driving experience ever - on the delivereda feistyperformance Fo c u s . Control, Auto High Beam, Blind optional extras took the price of my road ortrack. The Focus ST 2 has when it was safe to do so while being The ST is thefirst Ford Spotalertand Cross Trafficalert, car, as tested, to €4 4 ,7 2 9 . been enhanced withmany very well-mannered driving front-wheel drive electronic Forward Collision Warning, front The newFocus ST isbuilt at advanced sports technologies for throughtowns and built-upareas. limited-slip differential that and rear sensors, a head-up display, Fo rd ’ s Saarlouis assembly plant in best-ever performance and agility. The fact that the ride height has improves traction and stability. Hill Launch Assist, Pre-Collision Germany following a €600 million Two series are offered: ST-2 and been reduced by 10mm allows very Special Michelin Pilot Sport 4S Braking/ with Pedestrian and i nve s tm e n t . THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 50 LEADER MOTORS NEW SERVICE STATION NISSAN New Texaco station officially opened

LIMERICK city has anew Texaco ParkwayService Station on the Dublin Road, writes Trish Whelan. Parkway Service Station, a new Texaco-branded outlet, has been brought into operation by Valero Energy (Ireland), the company which markets Texaco brand fuel in I re l a n d . Built on a high-profile site on the busy Dublin Road approach to Limerick, the Parkwayoutletis saidtobea Tom Naughton, Retail Sales model of 21st century service Manager for Valero (Energy) station design. Ireland Limited, and Sean A core feature is a Heaphy, managing director latest-generation SPAR of H2 Group, at the Texaco convenience store. Parkway Service Station The new Parkway Service Station is capable of fuelling H2 to over360 persons in 12 up to 12vehicles at any one locations across Kerry, time - withan off-island Tipperary, Kildare, Dublin, pump point fortrucks - and Offaly,Limerick and Cork- Five stars for safety for new Juke has parking for up to 40 cars, themajority under the opening 24-hours per day for Texaco brand. NISSAN’S new generation Juke has been awarded a maximum occupant protection placing it among the top performers in 364 days a year. The outlet has already five-star safety rating in the latest round of the Euro NCAP the small SUV class of 2019. Juke scored 81pc on cyclists and Managed by taken the Supreme National crash test programme making it one of the safest vehicles in pedestrian protection tests. Listowel-based H2 Group, Winner’s Award and a the B-SUV segment, writes Trish Whelan. A 73pc rating was applied to the level of Safety Assist whose managing director is Forecourt of theYear (Large Euro NCAP praised the car’s strength and class-leading technology available on the car. Ballylongford-born Sean Category) Award at the recent accident prevention technology. First deliveries to customers have already started. Prices Heaphy,its opening has Convenience Store Awards The score for adult protection was 94pc and 85 pc for child are from €2 1 , 9 9 5 - €2 6 , 95 0 . raised employment within event in Dublin.

For news and reviews,goonlineand check out our new MOTORS section. www.limerickleader.ie W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER HURLERS BACK IN ACTION Leader Limerick face Clare in league For more see Page 52

Fortress Ravenhill awaits S o cce r Munster Rugby this Friday night in what is a SPmassive game for the ORT Sadness at away side passing of soccer star M a t t h ews COLM KINSELLA c k i n s e l l a @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e

THE funeral took place earlier this week of legendary former Leagueof Ireland medal winner with Limerick, Johnny Matthews. Popular Coventry native Matthews passed away in Waterford at the age of 73 on Christmas Day. Matthews initially came to Ireland to play with Waterford, wherehe also enjoyed hugesuccess, before moving to Limerick in 1979. The talented goalscorer made a total of 41 appearances for Limerick between '79 and 1981 and was a keymember of their league winning side of 1979-1980. Johnny Matthews is regrettedby his wifeMary Clare, daughters Jenny and Sarah, sister Gloria, extended family and friends. Following Requiem Mass in the Church of the Holy Cross, Tramore on New Year’s Eve, a private cremation took place in theIsland Crematorium, Ringaskiddy. The late Johnny Matthews Munster seek Ulster boost won arecord sevenLeague of Ireland titles, including six with Waterford. Matthews'156 goals put him in the top 10 highest goal ahead of key trip to Paris scorer in the history of the League of Ireland. R u g by : Van Graan’s charges look to bounce back after Leinster loss Matthews his final League of Ireland appearance as a COLM KINSELLA period, kicks off at 7.35pm. th e r e. including the‘mu s t-w i n’ t ie player, for Newcastle West, in s p o r t @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e Munster look set to “Obviously Ulster is on fire away to Racing 92 in Paris. February 1987, against Derry welcome back anumber of at this stage, theyhaven't lost “He got on a bit earlier at the Brandywell. He entered MUNSTER seek a timely Ireland internationals for the there for a very long time, so a than we wanted. JJ management withNewcastle boostahead oftheir crucial trip to Belfast.However, nice challenge ahead.” (Hanrahan) was struggling West while still a player in Heineken Champions Cup Johann vanGraan is settobe Munster have a number of with astiff hammy,but I 1986 before returning to clash with Racing 92 in Paris without the likes of the rested injury concerns ahead of thought he did well. Waterford to take the when lockinghorns with CJ Stander, Chris Farrell and their clash with Ulster who “Obviously it washis first managerial reins. Ulster in theGuinness Pro14 Jean Kleyn, who featured in thumped Connacht in their game back in a long time. in Belfast on Friday night. thewin over Connachtin most recent Pro14 fixture. “I thought he read play Mu n s te r ’ slead at thetop Galway just before Hooker Kevin O’Byrne is pretty well, afew good kicks of Conference B of the C h r i s tm a s . to be assessed by the medical into the cornerand one Guinness Pro14 was cuttoa Johann van Graan said: department foran ankle almost line-break, butit will single point, following the “The guys who have had two injury picked up in the defeat take some time,but real p rov i n c e’s sixth defeat in weeks off were backon to Leinster. Munster's Johann van Graan positive to get him outonto their last seven meetings Monday. Obviously, a few VanGraan said: “Chris welcomes back some stars thepitch and through25 with Leinster on Saturday. played against Connacht, so Cloete also took ashot, minutes of play, so from that L ei n s te r ’ s 13-6success they will only beback against Tommy (O’Donnell) also has situation but that is rugby.” perspective a real positive also ended Munster’s Racing, so we will have a few got a bit of tightness and then Fit-again out-half Joey from our side.” 21-game unbeaten home run guys back this week. a lotof theguys who came off Carbery made his first Friday night’s opponents at Thomond Park. “Unfortunately, it looks the field that finished it have a appearance off thebenchin Ulster go intothis week’s This Friday night’s clash like we will have more guys few bangs and bruises and we the defeat to Leinster. interprovincial derby on the with Ulster at Kingspan outthan wewill have back have a few games coming up, Van Graan agreed that backof an impressive bonus Stadium,the sides’final which in certain positions is so a lot of guys have had a lot of having Carbery back ahead of point win over Connacht at interprovincial derby of the key, but we will take our time, minutes, so we also have to key PRO14 and Heineken Kingspan Stadium on Friday Christmas and New Year’s then reassess and take it from manage them,so atricky Champions Cup games, night last. The late Johnny Matthews THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 52 S P O RT SPORTS ROUND UP Youths chase inter county glory as Limerick hurlers Limerick's Premier league returns and footballers can target early season final spots

JEROME O'CONNELL Bob Childs,Darren against Cork – a sixth fifth j o co n n e l l @ l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e O’Doherty and RyanGlynn final appearance in six years. while therewere Limerick have won this BOTH the Limerick hurlers inter-county returns for title in 2015 and 2018 and also and footballers have action in Danny Neville, Josh Ryan and reached finals in 2016 and Dara Rainsford, Fairview Rangers, scores a penalty despite the efforts of Tommy Holland, theopening week of thenew Hugh Bourke inthat 0-14 to 2 0 1 7. Janesboro. This weekend, table toppers Fairview take on Geraldines yea r. 2-6 win over Clare. Limerick beat Tipperary THE LIMERICK DL Youth and with the FAI a week And, both inter-county Limerick will be bidding in round one pre-Christmas G e ra l d i n e s . side also begin their quest to A win for Derek later, there will be plenty of teams could find themselves to repeat their 2017McGrath when debuts were given to retain theInter County competition forplaces in early season provincial Cup campaign when wins Darren O’Connell, Brian H a n n o n’s men would see Youthtrophy on Sunday them go level on points with which should guard against final action withvictories in over Clare and Waterford Ryan, Brian O’Grady and when they host theKerry c o m p l ac e n c y the coming days. advanced the men in green to Mark Quinlan. the ‘V i ew. DL. Geraldines have shown The another second Billy Lee’s senior a final – losing to Kerry. Other newcomers that The sides met acouple of round tie Ballynanty Rovers footballers are first into Limerick arefive-time can feature against Clareare time and again they will weeks back when weather make life difficult for the big host Carew Park in LIT. action – they play Waterford McGrath Cup winners but Patrickswell duo Jason conditions resulted in the A game that would have in Fraher Field in Dungarvan h ave n’t lifted the early season Gillane and Josh Considine guns visiting the Green. game being called up with A win forFairview Rgs drawn the crowdsa year ago this Thursday January 2at provincial football title since and Na Piarsaigh’s Jerome Limerickleading 2-0 after takesona differenthue now 7. 3 0. 2 0 0 5. B oyl a n . will make ahuge statement 50 minutes. and with DermotFitzgerald with the visitors in a After beating Clare on Next Sunday (2pm) Both Limerick Manager Martin Sugrue rebuilding phase facing a Sunday, Limerick know that Limerick playtheir opening inter-county teams begin back in situ they will be will be hoping his side can further buoyed. Expect a rampant Balla XI. another win will secure a hurling game of 2020 – a their Allianz League repeat that the form that In-form side Charleville McGrath Cup final spot on Co-Op Superstores Munster campaigns on Saturday cup style atmosphere. saw them Boss theKingdom Waiting for Fairview to welcome high riding Saturday January 11 – most Leaguegame against Clarein January 25 – the hurlers away b oys . Division 1A side Castle Rvs likely against CorkorS i x m i l eb r id g e. to Tipperary in Thurles and slip up are PikeRvs who are Along with the Kerry DL, away to Aisling. wh i l e T i p p e ra r y. Victory will secure a the footballers away to CorkDL will make up the Premier A leaders Limerick gave debuts to Sunday January 12 final Waterford in Dungarvan. Awin for Pikecould see Group that Limerick need to them take top spot which Moyross welcome progress from. would be ahuge boost going Caledonians to the Cillian Fahy, Limerick into FAI action the following No rth s id e . shoots for a point over LIMERICK'S HOPES WILL REST ON we e ke n d . Another side doing well Clare Defender, Eoghan THE FOLLOWING SQUAD; Sean Hamm Another Premier tie sees in thesecond tier are (Aisling), Dylan O’Sullivan (Fairview), Collins during Sunday's Nenagh hosting Champions Newport and they will be Scott Kirwin (Fairview), Shay strongly fancied to advance McGrath Cup final McCarthy (Fairview), Jake Dillon Janesboro, both sides hoping for achange in at home to Abbey Rvs. (Newport), Ethan O’Sullivan (Fairview), Division 2B promotion David Power (Hill Celtic), Cian fo rtu n e s . Fitzgerald (Fairview), Joe Kavanagh The Lawson Cup kicks off challengers Northside will (Charleville), Ronan O’Dwyer (Aisling), on Saturday evening with test their strengthathome Eoin Duff (Fairview), Sean Connolly the remainder of the games to Premier A side (Fairview), Glen Kelly (Prospect), fixed for Sunday. Cappamore while Eoghan Burke (Aisling), Jamie Griffin The game of the round Caherconlish, leading the (Fairview), Get Quaid (Aisling), Kane sees Division 1A leaders way in Division 2A will be no Connolly (Caherdavin), Aodh pushovers at home to O’Hanluain (Aisling), Ben Kilfrush at hometo Premier side Regional Utdin a Premier A side Murroe. O'Shaughnessy (Aisling), Sean Hyde Rgs will be looking Ezekannagha (Fairview) second round game. While there is atwo division gap to bounceback at hometo There are acouple of between the sides, Regional Glenview Rvsand Lisnagry games in the PJ Matthews would be well served to go welcome an in-form Star Premier Leaguethat will into the tieprepared for a Rvs XI. have a hugebearing on the battl e. In the Open Cup race for the title. Kilfrush have got a lotof Coonagh B take on Leaders Fairview Rgs players back into the squad Kilmallock B fora place in face a toughtest when they and will relish ashot at a big thelast four of theOpen makethe short trip to the fish like Regional. C up. GarryowenGreen to take on The Premier side fellow challengers howeverare in fine form too Formore see #LLSport

41,000 flock to Christmas Racing Festival UP to 41,000 racegoers have final day of the 2018 Festival. Eric McNamara saddled The Mr Binman Limerick flocked to the four-day Mr St Stephen’s Day attracted Northern Love tospringa Christmas Racing Festivalis Binman Limerick Christmas the biggest attendance of the 20/1 surprise inthe the biggest annual National Racing Festival at week with 14,106 patrons concluding Irish Field Hunt meeting in Munster and Greenmount Park. passing through the Handicap Hurdle. this year'sevent isthe first An attendance of 6,295 turnstiles for what is The four-tear-old winner, green racing festival where all was recorded on the final day traditionally thebest ridden by RyanTreacy, ran involved have committed to of the National Hunt racing attended day of the Festival. out a half a length winner of reducing single use plastics. bonanza, December 20 Day four of the Mr Binman the 2m 3f contest in the The National Hunt which was Family Fun Day at Limerick Christmas Racing colours of Kevin McNamee, fixture boasts a total of Patrickswell. The figure was Festival saw apopular local whoalso bred Northern €575,000 in prize money, a 5% an increase of 200 on the success as Rathkeale trainer L ove. increase on 2018 levels. W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER HURLING S P O RT 53 MONALEEN ROAD HURLING 2019

The start of Monaleen GAA Road Hurling with over 50 Teams taking part ALL PICTURE BRENDAN GLEESON The First Team to take part in the Monaleen GAA Road H u rl i n g

Leo Morrisson, aiming the sliotar for the Monaleen GAA Road Fergal Kenzie, taking aim at the Monaleen GAA Road Hurling Barry Kiely, Keenan and Jack Mullane with Rory Skelly, all H u rl i n g set for Monaleen GAA Road Hurling

Carl and Robbie Swidger, getting ready for the Monaleen GAA Keith Lawlor, Ulick Bourke, Dave and Maria Hennessy, Eoin Sarah and Barry Sullivan, Cathal and James Daly, Tony Kane Road Hurling Dwyer, Alan Walsh and Darell Smith, all set to take part the and John Reill, all set for the Monaleen GAA Road Hurling Monaleen GAA Road Hurling

Rian Hurley, practicing before taking part in the Monaleen John O'Halloran, getting practice in before the Monaleen GAA Jack Mullane, putting some Carl and Robbie Swidger, GAA Road Hurling Road Hurling practice before the Monaleen getting ready for the GAA Road Hurling Monaleen GAA Road Hurling

Finbarr Nash, taking for the sliotar at the Monaleen GAA Noel Madden, watching his shot of the sliotar at the Killian Mullane, hitting the sliotar at the Monaleen GAA Road Hurling Monaleen GAA Road Hurling Road Hurling THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020

54 S P O RT OPINIONS Limerick “ “to the ON THE BALL core... COLM KINSELLA DONN O ' SU L L I VA N L i m e r i c k 's Christmas Racing Festival 2020 sporting proves a winner alright! wish list Racing At Limerick - 2019 Christmas Festival PICTURE: ALAIN BARR - 26.12.2019 his time of year is always a time for reflection and T planning ahead for what is to come in the New Year. Even though some sporting season's cross between one year and another, the end of 2019 does allow time to look forward to what may lie ahead in 2020. Normally at this time of the year, I would be ‘wishing’ to see Limerick win an All-Ireland hurling title. Seeing as that is still in recent memory, then I won't be selfish and add that to my list, well not at the top a ny way. With the Limerick footballers getting off to a winning 2020 start on Sunday last against Clare, I hope that the new season brings the rewards that Billy Lee deserves for all his hard work. He stuck by his guns when others might not have and the fact he enters his fourth season at the helm HE biggest sporting eventin which prevailed over the four days Grade 1 €100,000 Matchbook Betting The total figure for Tote turnover Munster over theChristmas speaks volumes about the of the event. Exchange Novice Chase, the race was €540,533, slightly down on the character of the man. With a Tperiod took place in The Festival continues to grow having been upgraded to a Grade one 2018 figure. two tier championship now a Patrickswell when Greenmount year on year. Seven years ago, the in 2018. If the betting turnover is a Park hosted thefour-dayMr reality, plus with a total prize fund for the fixture was One of the most interesting reflection on the state of the economy ‘f a vou rab l e ’draw in the Binman Limerick Christmas €350,000. This year the four-day aspects from the week was the betting and on the amount of disposable Racing Festival. Munster football National Hunt horse racing turnover figures from both the income in the pockets of people championship, 2020 could Close on 41,000 racegoers bonanza boasted a total of on-course layers and the Tote. heading into 2020 then the outlook be a good year for the men in passed through the turnstiles over €575,000 in prize money, a 5% The figures show that on-course looks pretty optimistic. green and white. the week, a very impressive figure. increase on 2018 levels. bookmaker turnover at Limerick It is also interesting at a time when On the soccer front, it The overall attendance figure Equally, in 2012 the feature Racecourse over the four days more and more people who like to goes without saying that was 500 up on the 2018 figure. race on St Stephen’s Day was reached €777,180. The figure is a have a bet on horse racing have access 2020 is a vital year for senior The attendance was no doubt th e €37,500 Grade 2 Greenmount €34,000 increase on the total 12 to an on-line betting account that the s o c c e r. helped by the favourable weather Park Chase. This year, the St months ago. turnover for the on-course bookies’ Limerick United are a Ste p h e n’s Day feature was the held up so well at Limerick. group looking to field teams in underage and Women's JEROME O'CONNELL leagues and that is to be commended. However we have been here before, so I Leaving behind a decade of fond memories for Limerick GAA just ‘w i s h ’that we get something different this S we roll into a newdecade senior hurling team. Division Four league success in 2013 but Again it was U21 hurling this Wednesday, Limerick time around. But that year did see Limerick the headlines went to the Munster SHC dominating in 2017. This summer will also see AGAAsupporters can look in a Munster SFC final and a Ladies and MHC winners. Limerick also won a In 2018, hurling dominated Limerick's Roisin Upton have backon thedecade 2010-’19 with Football League final – losing both. Division Two camogie league title. with All-Ireland honours for John fond memories. a shot at an Olympic medal as Silverware in 2010 went to the In 2014, Limerick retain the Munster K ie l y ’s men, who started the year her hockey side travel to Year by year there were Limerick footballers in the MHC title and in Croke Park won an as Munster League winners. The Tokyo for the 2020 games. highlights – August 19 in 2018 of Division Four Allianz League final All-Ireland intermediate camogie title. Limerick ladies footballers also Upton and her course the stand-out memory as and to the ladies footballers in the Limerick also won an All-Ireland minor enjoyed Croke Park success with a team-mates were the team of Declan Hannon lifted the Liam All-Ireland junior championship. A camogie championship. junior championship win. 2019, so heres to another 12 MacCarthy Cup high in the Hogan In 2011, there was Division Two In 2015, the U21 hurlers were crowned Ending the decade was 2019 months of success. Stand to end a 45-year wait for Allianz Hurling League success All-Ireland champions in a year when Allianz Hurling League success, On a final ‘w i s h ’- I hope All-Ireland SHC honours. and an All-Ireland SFC quarter Limerick lost a Ladies Football League another Munster SHC and a that the words of a young It was a decade that started with final appearance. final and also won the Munster Hurling Munster MHC. Limerick hurler, who much rancour in hurling circles In 2012, the ladies football lost League title. All in all, silverware most years penned an open letter, are with Justin McCarthy fielding an the Division Four League final. Limerick ended a run of three league and all enter the new decade full of heeded by all and change under-strength inter-county The footballers again tasted final defeats in Ladies Football in 2016. o pt i m i s m . comes for him and others. W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020 w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e THE LEADER TV AND BETTING S P O RT 55 COLM KINSELLA M o u r i n h o’s Spurs side can taste Emirates FA Cup success

F it’s thefirst weekend in the 139th edition of the oldest face Premier League leader on Middlesbrough on Sunday, January then it must be the football tournament in the world. Sunday, January 5 at 4.01pm. 2 .0 1 p m . Ithirdround of theEmirates FA As part of the Heads Up Arsenal's match with Holders Man City top the C up. campaign, all 32 fixtures will kick Championship side Leeds will also betting market at odds of 13/5, with The round of the Cup is off one minute late to encourage be broadcast on BBC One on Liverpool next best at 6/1. traditionally the stage when 20 fans to think about looking after Monday, January 6 at 7:56pm. However, preference is for 7/1 Premier League and 24 EFL their mental health. BT Sports televised fixtures shots Tottenham Hotspurs, third Championship clubs begin their The TV highlights of this include Manchester Utd’s trip to favourites in the betting. Spurs will c a m pa i g n s . we e ke n d ’ s third round fixtures Wolves on Saturday, 5.31pm and look to overcome ‘B o r o’ on Sunday 2019/2020 sees the staging of include Everton's trip to Anfield to Tottenham Hotspurs’away date at to earn a fourth round place. We think Jose can deliver the Cup IS THAT ON THE BOX?

We d n e s d ay T h u rs d ay F r i d ay S a t u rd ay S u n d ay FA Cup time, S O CC E R G R E Y H OU N D CRICKET CRICKET BRIGHTON V CHELSEA NEWCASTLE RACES S AFRICA V ENGLAND always a S AFRICA V ENGLAND BT SPORT 12.30PM GREYHOUND TV 6.20PM SKY SPORTS 8.30AM chance of a SKY SPORTS 8.30AM giant killing S O CC E R S O CC E R RUGBY UNION S O CC E R NORWICH V C PALACE DERBY V BARNSLEY ULSTER V MUNSTER MIDDLESBORO V SPURS BT ESPN 5.30PM SY SPORTS 7.45PM EIR SPORT 7.35PM BT SPORT 2PM

S O CC E R S O CC E R RUGBY UNION RUGBY UNION MAN CITY V EVERTON SWANSEA V CHARLTON CARDIFF V SCARLETS WA SPS V SAINTS BT SPORT 5.30PM SKY SPORTS 7.45PM PREMIER SPORT 7.35PM BT SPORT 3PM

DART S S O CC E R RUGBY UNION S O CC E R WORLD DARTS CHAMPIONS LIVERPOOL V SHEFF UNITED SALE V HARLEQUINS LIVERPOOL V EVERTON SKY SPORTS 7PM BT SPORT 8PM BT SPORT 7.45PM BBC ONE 4PM

S O CC E R GOLF GOLF S O CC E R ARSENAL V MAN UTD TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPS TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPS GILLINGHAM V WEST HAM BT SPORT 8PM SKY SPORTS 11PM BT SPORT 6.16PM SKY SPORTS 11PM CRICKET RUGBY UNION MELBOURNE V RENEGADES GLOUCESTER V BATH Munster and Ulster lock BT SPORT 8AM BT SPORT 3PM N BA CLIPPERS @ KNICKS horns this Friday night SKY SPORTS 8.35PM in Ravenhill CRICKET RUGBY UNION S AFRICA V ENGLAND LEINSTER V CONNACHT SKY SPORTS 8.30AM EIR SPORT 5,30PM GOLF TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPS SKY SPORTS 11PM S O CC E R S O CC E R VA LENCIA V EIBAR WOLVES V MAN UTD PREMIER SPORT 12NOON BT SPORT 5.30PM

S O CC E R RUGBY UNION ROCHDALE V NEWCASTLE EDINBURGH V KINGS BT SPORT 12.31PM PREMIER SPORT 7.45PM

RUGBY UNION N BA TREVISO V WA RRIORS CLIPPERS @ GRIZZLES PREMIER SPORTS 1PM SKY SPORTS 8.35PM

RUGBY UNION HORSE RACING DRAGONS V OSPREYS GOLDEN GATE PREMIER SPORTS 3PM SKY SPORTS 8.45PM

RUGBY UNION GOLF ZEBRE V CHEETAHS TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPS Jurgen Klopp faces his PREMIER SPORTS 3PM SKY SPORTS 9PM near neighbours Everton in the FA Cup on Sunday 56 THE LEADER w w w. l i m e r i c k l e a d e r. i e W E D N E S DAY, JA N UA RY 1, 2020